Michael Penix Jr. Out of Action Due to Knee Injury
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. will not play again this season due to a knee injury suffered during Sunday’s loss to the Carolina Panthers.
Sources close to the team indicate that Penix could have damage to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), although additional tests are being carried out to determine the exact severity of the injury.
The Falcons have announced that Penix will be placed on the injured reserve list, which will keep him off the field for at least the next four games. The team is evaluating the medical situation to determine the full extent of the injury.
Kirk Cousins, veteran quarterback, replaced Penix on Sunday and will take over the starting position for the Falcons while Penix is out. The loss left the Falcons with a 3-7 record.
Penix completed 13 of 16 passes for 175 yards before being hit with 5:22 left in the third quarter, following an incomplete pass. He tried to get up, but fell back to the ground and took off his helmet.
This is the second knee injury Penix has suffered this season. Previously, he had a bone bruise in his left knee, which prevented him from playing against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 7.In college, Penix suffered four season-ending injuries, including ACL tears in 2018 and 2020.
In the current season, Penix has completed 60.1% of his passes, accumulating 1,982 yards, 11 touchdowns, and three interceptions.
Cousins completed 6 of 14 passes for 48 yards after replacing Penix.
The Falcons signed Cousins in 2024 to a guaranteed contract of $100 million, but then selected Penix with the eighth pick of the draft. Atlanta was looking to secure its present and future at the quarterback position.
