The Atlanta Falcons have clinched the top spot in the NFC South, a division that promises a thrilling finish in the final two weeks of the regular season. However, their path to victory against the New York Giants wasn't paved by their $180 million quarterback, Kirk Cousins, but by rookie first-round pick, Michael Penix Jr.
Penix Jr.'s selection surprised many, especially considering Cousins' recent signing. Cousins' performance has been inconsistent, drawing criticism from NFL veterans like Michael Strahan, who, according to the Daily Mail, described Cousins as "consistently mediocre" this year.
Strahan further commented on Cousins' declining skill level, suggesting that the quarterback's perceived abilities might not align with his current performance. This critique followed Penix Jr.'s promising first NFL start.
The Falcons held a 7-7 record under Cousins, but head coach Raheem Morris decided to make a change after a series of struggling offensive drives. This decision came despite a recent win against the Las Vegas Raiders. The 36-year-old Cousins, recovering from a torn Achilles suffered in the 2023 season with the Minnesota Vikings, contributed to four consecutive losses before the 15-9 victory over the Raiders. During that losing streak, Cousins failed to throw a single touchdown while accumulating eight interceptions.
Following another interception and only one touchdown pass, Morris opted for Penix Jr., despite the Falcons' precarious playoff position. Although Penix Jr. didn't throw any touchdown passes in his debut, he demonstrated quick decision-making and accurate throws, completing 18 of 27 passes for 202 yards. He did have an interception, but it resulted from a dropped pass by tight end Kyle Pitts near the end zone.
With Penix Jr. now leading the offense, Strahan suggests Cousins should transition into a mentorship role, guiding the young quarterback through the complexities of the game. Reports indicate the Falcons might release Cousins before March to avoid the remaining years of his contract, despite a guaranteed $100 million at signing.
