The Atlanta Falcons can carry quite a bit of optimism into the 2025 NFL season, and much of the hope rests on second-year quarterback Michael Penix Jr. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler listed Penix as his projection to break out for the coming season thanks to the way he closed out 2024 and the talent around him in Atlanta.
A Promising Rookie Season
Penix, the No. 8 overall selection of the NFL Draft, did not begin the season as a starter for the Falcons. Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins opened the season under center, but after he hit a midseason rut, Penix earned the starting job in Week 16. In the final three games, though, Penix flashed the type of brilliance and accuracy that made him one of the nation’s best in 2022, completing 58 of 100 passes for 737 yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions. He also rushed for a touchdown, showcasing his dual-threat ability.
His most impressive showing was in Week 18 when he threw for 312 yards and three total touchdowns in a thrilling 44-38 overtime loss to the Carolina Panthers. Even in defeat, Penix’s poise and playmaking ability made a lasting impression on fans and analysts alike.
Why ESPN Believes in Penix
Jeremy Fowler of ESPN thinks Penix will break out in 2025. “Everything is in place — a viable supporting cast, a strong running game, and a winnable N.C. South,” Fowler wrote. The Falcons boast an extensive cast of offensive weapons, most notably 2024 nearly 1,000-yard wideouts Drake London and Darnell Mooney. Throw in Pro Bowl running back Bijan Robinson, tight end Kyle Pitts, and a strong offensive line, and Penix has all the weapons to thrive.
Falcons head coach Raheem Morris has attempted to drum up confidence in Penix, calling him “certainly outstanding” and the franchise’s future. Morris lauded Penix’s playmaking ability and the potential for him to excel in the NFL for years to come.
Challenges Ahead
Despite that rosy outlook, Penix and the Falcons have plenty of work to do. The team ended the 2024 season with an 8-9 record and missed out on the playoffs for the seventh straight season. The defense, for one, faltered, finishing 31st in sacks and yielding opponents to score at will. If the Falcons want to contend in the NFC South next season, those defensive issues will have to be addressed during the offseason.
Penix also has to work on his consistency. His rookie numbers were fine, but 58.1% in completion percentage and 78.9 in passer rating leaves a lot of room for growth. Having a full offseason as the unquestioned starter will give Penix time to work on his craft and build rapport with his teammates.
The Bigger Picture
The pick of Penix by the Falcons in 2024 divided opinions, particularly after they signed Cousins to a massive deal. Penix’s emergence, though, has proven that the team’s risk has paid off. Since Cousins is expected to be cut this offseason, the Falcons are leaning hard into Penix as their franchise quarterback.
If Penix can continue what he started late last season, the Falcons may finally snap their playoff drought. Atlanta has a talented roster and a weak division and could make some noise in the NFC. As Fowler pointed out, “Atlanta will highlight his massive talents in Year 2.”
Conclusion
Love Lucky Michael Penix Jr. and the next step in his NFL career — and the Falcons are going big! Combined with a strong supporting cast and a clear pathway to success, Penix has all the ingredients to develop into one of the league’s young stars. If you’re a Falcons fan, now is the time to be excited—maybe 2025 is the year Atlanta finds their way back to relevance, with their young and dynamic signal caller leading the charge.
