Michael Penix Jr. is the Atlanta Falcons' primary starting quarterback for the 2025 NFL season. Kirk Cousins serves as the backup, occasionally stepping in due to injuries or team decisions.

Recent QB Situation

The Falcons benched Kirk Cousins early in 2025 after a strong rookie showing from Michael Penix Jr., drafted No. 8 overall in 2024. Penix took over as starter, posting a 58.1% completion rate with 775 yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions in limited 2024 action that carried into 2025 plans. However, Penix suffered a season-ending injury around Week 11 against the Panthers, prompting talks of Cousins starting the rest of 2025 and potential 2026 draft plans.

Depth Chart Breakdown

  • QB1: Michael Penix Jr. – Rookie turned starter, now sidelined but expected back; Falcons committed long-term despite injury history.
  • QB2: Kirk Cousins – Veteran on a big contract ($180M over four years), highest-paid backup; started Weeks 1+ but lost job, briefly reclaimed amid Penix injury in October 2025.
  • Lower Depth : Includes practice squad options; team eyes upgrades via draft or free agency given Penix's rehab needs.

Quarterback| Role| Key 2025 Notes| Contract Status
---|---|---|---
Michael Penix Jr.| Starter (Injured)| Season-ending knee/shoulder issues; strong arm talent shown in 12 starts 10| Long-term rookie deal
Kirk Cousins| Backup/Starter Fill-in| Benched Week 1; $27.5M salary, no-trade clause; 37 years old 23| Through 2026 ($35M base)
Others (e.g., Taylor Heinicke per depth charts)| 3rd String| Emergency options; not primary focus 5| Short-term

Trending Discussions & Speculation

Fans and analysts buzz about Penix's injury derailing playoff hopes, with Cousins' age (37) and post-Achilles form raising doubts for 2026. Forums speculate on drafting QBs like LaNorris Sellers or Cade Klubnik, or signing vets like Aaron Rodgers if available. As of late December 2025, Cousins likely handles late-season starts, but Penix remains the future amid NFC South battles.

TL;DR: Penix Jr. is the Falcons' QB1, but injuries have Cousins starting now—check latest depth charts for game-day confirms.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.