The Atlanta Falcons are enhancing the offensive arsenal supporting Michael Penix Jr as he enters his second season as the team’s starting quarterback. After last year’s mixed results with veteran Kirk Cousins and the unexpected need to elevate Penix prematurely, the Falcons have focused on surrounding him with reliable targets. Less than a week before the 2025 preseason, Atlanta secured veteran wide receiver DJ Chark on a one-year deal to bolster their receiving group.
Transition from Kirk Cousins to Penix Shows Need for More Consistent Weapons
The 2024 season exposed inconsistencies in Kirk Cousins’s play for Atlanta. Despite moments of brilliance, including 500-yard games, Cousins endured a troubling four-week stretch without a touchdown and with eight interceptions, prompting the Falcons to shift their strategy. Recognizing the emerging talent in Michael Penix Jr., Atlanta decided to increase his responsibilities sooner than planned, aiming to develop him as their long-term leader under center.
Throughout that season, the Falcons’ offense remained competitive, ranking near the top 10 in PFSN’s Offense+ metric. While much of the effectiveness came from skill players, the running backs Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier were standout performers. Meanwhile, the wide receiver unit had its share of ups and downs, with Kyle Pitts underperforming but the core trio of Drake London, Darnell Mooney, and Ray-Ray McCloud III stepping up to meet the challenge.
Veteran Presence Added to Receiver Group in DJ Chark
To complement its young receiving core, Atlanta pursued an experienced option in DJ Chark. According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, Chark, who spent the previous season with the Los Angeles Chargers, signed a one-year contract with the Falcons. His arrival marks the latest chapter in a career that has seen him play for the Jacksonville Jaguars, Carolina Panthers, and Chargers.
“Veteran FA WR DJ Chark, who spent last year with the #Chargers, is signing with the #Falcons, per me and @MikeGarafolo. He gets a 1-year deal. The former #Jaguars, #Panthers and #Chargers veteran lands in ATL after several visits.” — Ian Rapoport, NFL Insider
A former second-round pick in 2018, Chark’s 2019 Pro Bowl season remains a career highlight, having recorded 73 catches for 1,008 yards and eight touchdowns. Although his impact diminished last year due to a hip injury, his experience and prior success offer the Falcons depth and a potential rebound opportunity.
Impact on Falcons’ Offensive Dynamics and Michael Penix Jr’s Development
With Penix poised to lead the Falcons’ offense, the addition of a seasoned wide receiver like DJ Chark strengthens the overall depth and versatility of the receiving corps. While the core group of London, Mooney, and McCloud provides a solid foundation, Chark’s veteran presence could prove valuable in critical moments or injury recovery. As the Falcons continue working to maximize Penix’s potential, these enhanced weapons aim to create a more balanced and dynamic attack heading into the new season.
Though Chark might not immediately overshadow the established targets, his experience adds another layer of security for the offense, allowing Penix to diversify his options and improve decision-making under pressure. This strategic move suggests the Falcons’ commitment to supporting their promising quarterback and pursuing sustained success in a competitive NFC South division.