Atlanta has competed in the NFC South race throughout the season, but Cousins struggled in the second half. The 36-year-old threw just one touchdown compared to nine interceptions over a five-game stretch prior to being benched, and the Falcons went 1-4 in those games.

From one milestone to another. Falcons rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. announced his engagement to girlfriend Olivia Carter on Saturday, just days after making his first NFL start on Dec. 22. “The sweetest love ❤️ Olivia and Michael 12.

Penix’s dramatic touchdown pass to Kyle Pitts couldn’t save the Falcons from falling to 8-8 and out of the NFC South lead with an OT loss to the Commanders.

Jake Matthews, the longest-tenured Falcon, knows what superb quarterback play looks like. He protected Matt Ryan's blindside from 2014 through 2021, after all.

Penix was selected by Atlanta with the No. 8 overall pick in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. At the time, the selection stunned NFL fans, since the Falcons had signed free agent Kirk Cousins to a 4-year, $180 million contract to be their starting quarterback in 2024.

Rookie Michael Penix Jr., will be the Atlanta Falcons' starting quarterback moving forward, while Kirk Cousins, who signed a $180 million contract last off-season, is headed to the bench, coach Raheem Morris announced.

Michael Penix Jr. on Falcons win against Giants The Atlanta Falcons gave rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. a spin in their game against the New York Giants this weekend. He pro

Michael Penix Jr. is starting his NFL career as an engaged man. The Atlanta Falcons rookie QB who had his first NFL game against the New York Giants at home winning, 34-7, announced that he is engaged to his girlfriend Olivia Carter.