Falcons Place Michael Penix Jr. on Injured Reserve List
The Atlanta Falcons have made significant roster changes following the injury of quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who has been placed on the injured reserve list. In a strategic move, Kirk Cousins has been named the starting quarterback, while Easton Stick has been signed to the active roster as the backup. Kyle Trask has also been added to the practice squad as an emergency third option. These transactions were finalized on the Wednesday preceding the Falcons’ Week 12 matchup against the New Orleans Saints.
Roster Changes and Injury Updates
In addition to naming Cousins the starter, the Falcons designated inside linebacker Divine Deablo to return from injured reserve. Head coach Raheem Morris confirmed that Deablo’s 21-day window for activation has officially opened. He will either need to be activated or reverted to season-ending injured reserve by the 15th week of the season.
Coaching Insights
Morris expressed optimism about Deablo’s return, stating, “I expect to see him. I don’t want to act like we’re going to activate him and not see him. I hope we’re going to see him unless something otherwise says something different.”
Player Backgrounds
Easton Stick joined the Falcons active roster after being signed back in April. He initially spent time on the practice squad after the initial roster decisions. In his last active season, Stick played for the Los Angeles Chargers, where he appeared in five games, starting four. He completed 111 of 174 passes for 1,129 yards, recording three touchdowns and one interception.
- Completion Rate: 63.8%
- Average Yards Per Game: 225.8
- Previous Experience: Appeared in one game in 2020, completing a single pass for 4 yards.
Stick has acknowledged that his practice time has been limited as he transitioned from a third-string quarterback role. He remains confident about his ability to perform if called upon, emphasizing the importance of preparation.
Trask’s Background
Kyle Trask comes to the Falcons after serving as a backup for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2022 to 2024. During his tenure, Trask played in seven games, where he completed four of 11 pass attempts for a total of 28 yards. The Buccaneers released him before the current season, allowing the Falcons to sign him as a free agent.
Upcoming Game Details
The Falcons held their first practice of Week 12 on Wednesday, gearing up for their upcoming game against the New Orleans Saints. This crucial matchup is scheduled for Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET. Atlanta enters the game with a record of 3-7, while New Orleans holds a record of 2-8.
