The Atlanta Falcons came close to earning a playoff berth the last two seasons but couldn’t overcome poor play at the quarterback position. Some would say the team overcorrected by signing Kirk Cousins and selecting Michael Penix in the first round of the 2024 NFL draft.
While it may not be the most conventional quarterback succession plan, the move could pay off if Penix becomes that long-term starter down the line. Having security at the game’s most important position isn’t the worst idea in the world, however, the negative perception surrounding the team’s 2024 draft class has caused some to overlook the rest of the talent on the roster.
ESPN released a new batch of post-draft power rankings and the Falcons were listed way down at No. 20:
The Falcons needed a quarterback so bad they got two. Free agent signee Kirk Cousins was leading the NFL in passing touchdowns (18) through eight games in 2023 when a torn Achilles tendon ended his season. Atlanta’s QB combination of Desmond Ridder and Taylor Heinicke threw for 17 TDs in 2023, with 16 interceptions. Only two quarterbacks since 2020 have thrown for more touchdowns than Cousins: Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen. The Falcons also drafted Michael Penix Jr. with the No. 8 pick, but he doesn’t figure to start, barring a health concern for Cousins, until 2026, at the earliest. — Marc Raimondi, ESPN
It’s a valid complaint to say the Falcons could have used their first-round pick to improve the roster in 2024, and there were others available who could have helped the team more this season.
However, it’s worth noting that Atlanta only felt comfortable enough to splurge at quarterback because of the other pieces on offense. Players like tight end Kyle Pitts, wide receiver Drake London and running back Bijan Robinson will benefit tremendously from improved play at the quarterback spot.
If the team returns to the playoffs in 2024, fans (probably) won’t still be complaining about the Penix pick. Make sure to check out our first post-draft 53-man roster projection.
