The Atlanta Falcons waited long enough.
They’re ready to unleash their first-round pick and see what he’s got.
Following yet another miscue-riddled performance, head coach Raheem Morris made the tough decision to bench Kirk Cousins.
The Falcons will now roll with quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who they took with the No. 8 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
As risky as that might be at this point in the season, it could be just what they need to get over the hump.
At least, that’s how Kimberley Martin feels.
Talking on ESPN’s “Get Up,” the renowned analyst stated that this move could actually save their season, giving them credit for at least trying to do something to shake things up.
"This move could save their season."
—@ByKimberleyA on the Falcons benching Kirk Cousins for rookie Michael Penix Jr. pic.twitter.com/sLdR4lVsdq
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) December 18, 2024
If anything, some might say it took them longer than it should’ve.
Cousins left much to be desired in the past five games, throwing just one touchdown and nine interceptions.
The Falcons had dropped four games in a row, and Cousins hadn’t thrown a single touchdown pass in that span.
Morris still had his back and started him vs. the Las Vegas Raiders, but that performance may have been the straw that broke the camel’s back.
Cousins doesn’t seem to be a good fit for their offensive plans, and he seems out of sync right now.
Whether Penix will fare any better as a rookie remains to be seen, but it was either giving him a chance or kissing their playoff hopes goodbye.
NEXT: Analyst Makes A Bold Prediction About Michael Penix Jr.
