The Atlanta Falcons made a significant change in their quarterback lineup in 2024 by naming Michael Penix Jr. as their new starter, replacing Kirk Cousins after some underwhelming performances. This shift reflects the team‘s confidence in Penix Jr.’s ability to lead, signaling a fresh direction for the Falcons’ offense.
Running back Bijan Robinson recently shared his thoughts about Penix Jr.’s impact during an episode of The Pivot Podcast. Robinson expressed excitement over what the 25-year-old quarterback contributes both on the ground and through the air, highlighting Penix Jr.’s versatility and athleticism.
Bijan Robinson Highlights Penix Jr.’s Dual Threat Ability
Robinson emphasized how Penix Jr.’s mobility enhances the Falcons’ running game, noting that opposing defenses must now account for the quarterback’s ability to scramble and run, which adds a new layer of complexity. This dynamic running style aligns with offenses like Philadelphia’s, forcing linebackers to adjust their focus during plays.
“I mean, well, in the run game, it helps out a lot because he’s an athlete,” Robinson said. “So, you know, it’s more like Eagles-type offense. You got to account for not just me in the run game or Tyler in the run game; you have to account for Michael because he can roll out, he can scramble, he can take another linebacker out.” —Bijan Robinson, Falcons Running Back
Robinson further explained how Penix Jr.’s ability to take linebackers out of the play creates valuable mismatches that benefit the running backs during rushing attempts.
“And I feel like when you take another linebacker out, then as a running back, you love that every single time that it’s a mismatch.” —Bijan Robinson, Falcons Running Back
The Falcons’ offense benefits not only from Penix Jr.’s running but from his arm talent, which Robinson called exceptional based on his observations at team camp.
“But then in the pass game, obviously his arm talent is special,” Robinson added. “So you know I’m even seeing it in camp like you know some some of them balls that he’s throwing, I’m like, ‘Shoot,’ like I have to like actually go get it because he’ll throw it in the area, but the area is like where DB can’t get it, but me, I have to haul my bu** over there. He has a special arm.” —Bijan Robinson, Falcons Running Back
Former NFL Quarterback Shares Views on Falcons’ Quarterback Change
The Falcons’ decision to move Michael Penix Jr. to the starting role sparked conversation across the football community, including former NFL quarterback and ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky. On the July 27 edition of NFL on ESPN, Orlovsky expressed support for the team’s choice and the new quarterback hierarchy.
Orlovsky sees Penix Jr. as the key to establishing a winning mindset for the Falcons, with Cousins stepping into the backup role to support that goal. This approach aligns with the team’s ambition to become playoff contenders.
“They want to win. They want to start to establish a winning culture and win football games and be a playoff contender,” Orlovsky said. “If Michael Penix is the guy for this year, then Kirk Cousins is the backup; so be it.” —Dan Orlovsky, Former NFL Quarterback and ESPN Analyst
Anticipating Michael Penix Jr.’s Impact on the Falcons’ Future
As the Falcons embrace their new quarterback arrangement, all eyes are on how Michael Penix Jr. will steer the team through the coming season. His ability to combine athletic running with precise passing presents a promising outlook for Atlanta’s offense.
The support from teammates like Bijan Robinson and endorsements from experienced analysts reflect growing confidence in Penix Jr.’s potential to elevate the Falcons. With a focus on building a winning culture and contending for the playoffs, the quarterback’s performance will be instrumental in shaping the team‘s 2024 trajectory.