Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. Faces Season-Ending Knee Surgery
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. faces a difficult setback as he is confirmed to need season-ending knee surgery. The Falcons announced the news following a second opinion on his left-knee injury. This development means Penix will remain sidelined for the remainder of the 2025 NFL season.
Details of the Injury
The injury, identified as a partially torn ACL, was severe enough to place Penix on injured reserve. This designation mandates that he must miss a minimum of four games. Despite initial hopes for a possible return, the medical evaluation clarified the extent of the injury.
Replacement Quarterbacks
- Kirk Cousins will step in as the starting quarterback.
- Easton Stick, currently on the practice squad, is expected to be the backup.
Upcoming Game and Team Performance
Cousins will take over as starting quarterback during the Week 12 game against the New Orleans Saints at Caesars Superdome. The Falcons are struggling this season, currently holding a 3-7 record and failing to secure any wins in the NFC South.
Playoff Chances
According to simulations, the Falcons have less than a 1% chance to qualify for the playoffs. With seven games remaining, head coach Raheem Morris acknowledged the challenge ahead but emphasized the need for resilience and focus. “You got to go with the next-man-up mentality,” he stated.
Penix’s Season Performance
Before his injury, Penix had completed 166 of 276 passes, totaling 1,982 yards, nine touchdowns, and three interceptions over nine games. He achieved a completion rate of 60.1%, averaging 220.2 yards per game. This marked his second season since being drafted as the No. 8 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Previous Injuries
Penix has a history of knee injuries from his college career, but those previous issues were limited to his right knee. Head coach Morris expressed concern for Penix, noting the emotional toll of his injury on the team.
“Just hurting for the young man,” Morris conveyed, emphasizing the team’s commitment to move forward despite the setback.
