The first NFL start for Michael Penix Jr. was a good one as he led the Atlanta Falcons to a commanding win against the New York Giants.
The rookie quarterback’s performance drew praise from around the league, with Atlanta coach Raheem Morris dubbing it “almost flawless.”
Penix completed 18 of 27 passes for 202 yards, throwing one interception that wasn’t entirely his fault.
The advanced stats paint an even more impressive picture, though it’s worth noting that he got some solid help from his defense, which nabbed two pick-sixes against a struggling Giants squad.
The quarterback situation in Atlanta has caught the attention of former NFL head coach Bill Belichick, who recently shared his thoughts on “Inside The NFL.”
He broke down how the Falcons’ offense accommodates both Penix and Kirk Cousins’ strengths without completely reshaping their identity, which could potentially throw off the other players on the field.
The legendary coach also didn’t hold back his admiration for the rookie.
“I like Penix, I really like Penix. I said that when he came out. You know, he’s got a lot of experience, played five years. I think it’s an uphill struggle, but I do like the kid,” Belichick said, via NFL Films.
"I really like the kid" ? @themikepenix
Belichick talks through the challenge of switching QBs based off his experience with Brady and Cassel. pic.twitter.com/Tl7SjgIPM7
— NFL Films (@NFLFilms) December 27, 2024
Five seasons of college ball clearly refined Penix’s game, and his development has only accelerated under Cousins’ mentorship.
It’s quite the turnaround from Belichick’s initial skepticism about selecting Penix with the No. 8 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Back then, he questioned Atlanta’s decision to bring in another quarterback alongside Cousins, worried that juggling two signal-callers might create complications.
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