The Atlanta Falcons have a very young offense that continues to gain experience each week in the NFL. It appears the Falcons are finally in a position where they’re starting to turn the corner. This upcoming season feels like it could be the first in which Atlanta has a legitimate shot at making the playoffs.
Much of that optimism stems from an offense that has largely stayed intact—except for newly named starting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. Despite Penix entering his rookie season as a starter, many in the football world believe he has the potential to be a star and help push the Falcons over the hump. In fact, he may be a key reason the team has been scheduled for so many primetime games.
“It’s a bit surprising that the Falcons have five prime-time games this season,” Jordan Dajani wrote. “I believe that’s because of the excitement surrounding Michael Penix Jr.”
Penix also finds himself in good company in Atlanta, as former Falcons great Matt Ryan has taken on a mentor role—occasionally even inviting him to dinner.
“Mike, I’ll see you for dinner next week or two,” Ryan told Penix.
Still, despite all the buzz, there are skeptics. Yahoo Sports’ Charles McDonald, for one, believes the Falcons may have acted too hastily in giving up future assets.
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
“I really wish they had held on to that first round pick. Really, we’re giving away the first round pick right now? I don’t know if he will be consistent enough to be good,” McDonald said.
McDonald is referring to the draft-night trade in which Atlanta acquired edge rusher James Pearce, sending several picks to the Rams, including their first-rounder for next season.
Because McDonald isn’t fully sold on Penix, he believes Atlanta should have taken a more cautious approach. Without that first-round pick as a fallback, the Falcons are all-in on Penix. If his first year as starter falls short of expectations, they won’t have the luxury to draft a QB in the first round next year.
Read the full article here