Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins has pledged his full support to the team’s second-year quarterback, Michael Penix, as the Falcons prepare for what they hope will be a breakout season. Cousins acknowledged Penix’s talent and potential during discussions earlier this week, emphasizing his role as a supportive teammate rather than an overwhelming voice in Penix’s development.
Head coach Raheem Morris also highlighted how valuable Cousins’ experience and mentorship could be for Penix, especially given Cousins’ extensive NFL tenure and knowledge of the game.
Cousins Praises Penix’s Talent and Offers Thoughtful Guidance
During a recent interview, Cousins expressed strong confidence in Penix’s future prospects, stating that the young quarterback has the necessary qualities for success.
“Michael is going to do great,”
Cousins said.
“He is going to have a great career. He is off to a great start, and he has all of the tangibles and intangibles that you need to be successful. I am just here to support him as he needs it. But, I also don’t need to be in his ear so much that I am another weight, another voice. I just want to be able to support as I can, and he knows that.”
—Kirk Cousins
This approach signals Cousins’ intention to balance encouragement with respect for Penix’s own leadership and autonomy in the Falcons’ quarterback room.
Coach Morris Highlights the Value of Cousins’ NFL Experience
Raheem Morris emphasized that having a veteran like Cousins on the roster is a tremendous asset for Penix and the team overall. He remarked,
“Kirk’s played in this league for a long time, seen a lot of football, seen a lot of things. When you have a voice like that in the room, that’s always going to be helpful. Everybody likes really good football players and being around them, and Kirk’s been a really good football player in this league for a long time. When you’re able to come off some of the history, some of the things that he’s been through. None of those things would be harmful for Mike at all.”
—Raheem Morris
This support system reflects the Falcons’ commitment to fostering the growth of Penix as he seeks to build on his initial NFL experience.
Additional NFL Updates: Haason Reddick’s Commitment to Conditioning
Elsewhere in the NFL, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers recently signed outside linebacker Haason Reddick, who faced challenges last season due to contract disputes, limiting him to only 10 games. Reddick was absent from the team’s voluntary OTAs but clarified that he maintained his physical readiness during that period.
“I’ll address it before y’all do: I know everybody was concerned about me not showing up at [OTAs], but for me, I definitely made sure to stay in shape,”
Reddick explained.
“I think I showed that to everybody out here.”
—Haason Reddick
He went on to say that his absence was due to personal matters he needed to resolve before fully committing to his transition with the Buccaneers. This preparation is intended to allow him to focus entirely on football once fully integrated into the team.
Rookie Wide Receiver Tetairoa McMillan Shares Early NFL Experiences with Panthers
Carolina Panthers’ first-round wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan recently reflected on his initial days during the team’s rookie minicamp, expressing that the experience made his NFL aspirations feel more tangible and real.
“I would definitely say that was a dope moment. That was probably one of the first times where it felt real,”
McMillan said.
“Going through the whole draft process the last four or five months, then finally getting to put on a jersey and go out to the practice field. It was a blessing. I’m just looking forward to competing vs. the defense and getting acclimated with the people in the building, my teammates, the coaches, as well as the playbook.”
—Tetairoa McMillan
McMillan is already developing a strong rapport with Panthers head coach Dave Canales, appreciating the coach’s approach and offensive system which seems to fit his style of play perfectly.
“Man, I love him. I feel like I’m a little biased, just because he’s a Cali kid like me. Just the things that he’s done, his résumé, what he’s done with big X receivers, I can see myself in the offense that he runs, and I’m loving it so far. I’m trusting him and his plan that he has set for me and his team. I’m excited to see what the future holds for us.”
—Tetairoa McMillan
McMillan Learning from Top NFL Receivers and Film Study
In preparation for his rookie season, McMillan is immersing himself in film study, drawing lessons from established receivers like D.K. Metcalf of the Seattle Seahawks and Mike Evans of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He described how the coaching staff uses these clips to teach different route concepts and techniques.
“We obviously go over install, and they have clips from Seattle and Tampa, and all those clips that he pulls up, he wants us to watch. He knows the different looks and different ways to run different concepts, but yes, I’m watching a lot of those two the last couple days.”
—Tetairoa McMillan
Significance and Outlook for the Falcons and NFL Prospects
The Falcons’ strategy of pairing a veteran like Kirk Cousins with an emerging quarterback such as Michael Penix reflects a broader trend of mentorship and development in the NFL. Cousins’ balanced support could help Penix build confidence and polish his skills without overwhelming him, fostering a healthy dynamic for growth.
Meanwhile, rookies like Tetairoa McMillan are already laying the groundwork for NFL success through intense preparation and strong relationships with their coaching staff. Such efforts from players across the league signal an exciting season ahead, as teams look to blend experience and fresh talent for competitive performances.