Falcons running back Bijan Robinson emphasized the growing chemistry between himself and quarterback Michael Penix Jr. as the team prepares for the 2025 NFL season. Robinson expressed confidence in Penix’s ability to deliver precise passes, noting that the offensive unit is becoming increasingly synchronized with the new starting quarterback.

We’re comfortable with how he places the ball, where he places the ball. Like I know where he’s going to throw it. I know how he’s going to get it there. So with me, with Drake, Mooney, Ray-Ray, Kyle, everybody on the offense, we all have a great feeling for him. He has a great feeling for us. You can really see how the chemistry of all of us is really coming together.

—Bijan Robinson, Falcons RB

Michael Penix Jr. Projects Confidence in Falcons’ Championship Prospects

Michael Penix Jr. expressed a bold vision for the Falcons’ 2025 campaign, stating that the team should be considered the best in the league rather than just having potential. His optimism reflects the broader momentum within the franchise as they build toward a Super Bowl run.

“Potential? We should be the best in the league,”

Penix said in a statement shared on the team’s official website.

Falcons Leadership Confident in Team Improvements and Staff Changes

Falcons General Manager Arthur Blank indicated that the franchise has strategically assembled the talent and coaching personnel needed for a serious championship push. Blank highlighted changes made during the offseason, including free agency moves, draft selections, and staff adjustments, which show the organization’s commitment to improvement.

I definitely think we have the right people,

Blank said.

I think they continue to demonstrate that, I think, during this offseason, and how they built during free agency and particularly decisions … in the draft. And I think continuing to reflect on the coaching staff, making some changes on the coaching staff. And if the emperor has no clothes, you’ve got to say the emperor has no clothes. And I think our leadership team has done that, and I think that’ll make us better.

My feeling … is that we’re in a better place now, teamwise, coachingwise, totally across the board than we’ve been in a number of years,

Blank added.

And so we were close last year, didn’t finish the way we wanted to finish, for sure. Every one of the coaches would say that. [The] players would say that, as well. And certainly, I feel that way, but I think incrementally we’ve gotten that much better. And so, I look forward to the season and a different set of results at the end of the season.

Veteran Players and Coaches Reflect on Growth and Team Unity

Elsewhere in the NFL, conversations highlight the importance of health, joy, and perseverance in athletes’ careers. Panthers wide receiver Renfrow described the influence of coach Swinney in motivating players through challenging times. Swinney himself commented on a player’s renewed passion and craftsmanship in the game.

He said, ‘Why would you not [play]? You have the opportunity of a lifetime,

Renfrow said.

That’s part of what makes him special. Pushing to get the best out of people, just believing in you even when you don’t believe in yourself.

He just got in a place where he kind of lost his joy,

Swinney added.

He’s always played for the love of the game, but it all stems from being healthy. So, it’s been awesome to kind of see him find that again. He’s a craftsman. There are route runners and then there’s craftsmen. And he’s a craftsman. I’ve watched him for a long time. … I’m just happy he’s back out here. If he stays healthy, he’ll do what? He gets open. And he catches it. And he makes plays. He’s not a very big guy, but he plays like a 6-3 guy.

Panthers’ Coach and Players Aim High After Last Season’s Struggles

Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales enters his second year with high expectations for 2025, determined to lead the team to success despite a difficult previous season. His leadership style and preparation have earned praise from his players, who appreciate his consistency and vision.

The sky’s the limit for this group,

Canales said.

This is going to be a very competitive team. I don’t think people are going to want to play us by the style of football that we play. I’m expecting that. My expectations are really high for this group.

Wide receiver David Moore acknowledged Canales’ growth and readiness entering the new season.

His vision,

Moore said.

The way he came in and kind of prepped us, it was kind of the same, but you could tell he’s not a rookie anymore. Now he knows what to expect. He’s all ready for it and excited.

Panthers guard Robert Hunt commended Canales for maintaining steady leadership during last season’s challenges.

Dave is going to be Dave, and that’s what I honestly respect about him,

Hunt said.

This s— gets hard, man. People typically turn to run or start doing different s—. But he’s been the same guy. I respect that.

Ikem Ekwonu Expresses Pride in Carolina as His Hometown

Panthers left tackle Ikem Ekwonu revealed that he is leaving contract extension discussions to his agent but emphasized his emotional connection to Carolina, describing it as his true home.

“People say it’s like home. But this literally is home for me.”

—Ikem Ekwonu, Panthers LT

Looking Ahead: Falcons Poised to Build on Momentum in 2025

With Bijan Robinson and Michael Penix Jr. demonstrating a promising offensive rapport, the Falcons seem well-positioned to challenge for the league’s top spot in 2025. General Manager Arthur Blank’s confidence in the roster and coaching staff adjustments also bodes well for the team’s aspirations. As the Falcons aim to improve upon last season’s near miss, their developing chemistry and organizational focus could drive them to a stronger finish and a potential Super Bowl run.