Falcons Turn to Trask and Cousins After Michael Penix Jr. Suffers Season-Ending ACL Tear

The Atlanta Falcons entered the 2025 season with optimism surrounding their young talent, but the year has steadily unraveled into one setback after another. The latest blow came this week when rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. was diagnosed with a season-ending partially torn ACL, abruptly halting his first professional campaign. The injury not only removes one of Atlanta’s most promising pieces but also reshapes the remainder of the season for a team already struggling for stability.

Penix, the organization’s first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, had shown stretches of growth and flashes of potential despite the broader challenges facing the Falcons’ offense. His nearly 2,000 passing yards and nine touchdowns reflected incremental progress in a developmental year. But with his recovery timeline now extended into the offseason, the focus turns to rehabilitation and long-term durability—a familiar storyline given Penix’s extensive college injury history.

In response to the loss, the Falcons moved quickly to reinforce their quarterback room by signing former Buccaneers backup Kyle Trask. The addition provides needed depth behind veteran starter Kirk Cousins, who now resumes full command of the offense. Atlanta’s coaching staff has emphasized continuity and adaptability as the team prepares for its upcoming stretch of games.

As the Falcons brace for the final weeks of a difficult season, the organization remains vocal in its support of Penix and confident in his ability to return stronger. For now, the quarterback picture shifts to survival mode, and Atlanta will rely on its veterans to navigate the challenges ahead.

1. Penix’s Season Ends Abruptly

Penix’s injury occurred at a time when the Falcons were evaluating his long-term fit within their system. The rookie had completed 1,982 yards while throwing nine touchdowns to three interceptions, providing glimpses of precision passing and poise in the pocket. His development was viewed as a central storyline for the franchise, particularly given the investment made to secure him in the 2024 draft. The diagnosis of a partially torn ACL ensures that Penix will be sidelined for the remainder of the season, a disappointing turn for a player who has already endured multiple major injuries throughout his collegiate and professional career. While the Falcons have not placed a timetable beyond “ready for training camp,” the rehabilitation process will be closely monitored by the team’s medical staff and coaches. Head coach Raheem Morris delivered a strong message of confidence on Wednesday, emphasizing the organization’s belief in Penix. “The guy is going to come back stronger for us. This organization believes in him,” Morris said, reiterating that the franchise sees the young quarterback as a key part of its future. Offensive coordinator Zac Robinson also expressed support, highlighting Penix’s mental toughness and resilience. “He’s been through these things in the past,” Robinson noted. “We are all praying for him and the procedure and the recovery. We are all wrapping our arms around him.”

2. Veteran Presence Takes Over

With Penix unavailable, the Falcons will shift back to Kirk Cousins, who began the season in a starting role before injuries and organizational decisions created opportunities for the rookie. Cousins’ experience and familiarity with NFL systems offer a stabilizing force for a team seeking consistency amid constant changes. Robinson explained that the offensive approach will resemble concepts used last season, as well as schemes that Cousins has historically operated well within. Returning to those foundations, he said, will help streamline communication and execution as Atlanta prepares for its upcoming opponents. To reinforce the depth chart, the Falcons signed Kyle Trask, who spent the early part of his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Trask provides additional insurance and could see action if circumstances demand it, though Cousins is expected to handle the bulk of responsibilities unless injuries arise. Atlanta enters a challenging stretch with road matchups against the New Orleans Saints and New York Jets. With the team’s postseason hopes slim, the focus shifts to competitiveness, evaluation, and maintaining cohesion during an adversity-filled season.

3. Looking Ahead Despite Setbacks

Even in a difficult year, the Falcons continue to emphasize development and long-term strategy. Penix’s recovery will be a central part of the offseason narrative, and the team remains committed to ensuring he has the resources needed to return at full strength. His performance this season—despite injuries, pressure, and offensive inconsistency—offered enough promise to maintain organizational confidence. Cousins’ leadership will be vital in the short term, both on the field and in mentoring younger players. Stabilizing the offense and avoiding further disruption remain priorities as Atlanta works through the final weeks of the schedule. Meanwhile, Trask’s addition signals the team’s desire to remain prepared at the most important position. While the Falcons’ record reflects the difficulties of the season, the franchise continues to balance immediate competitiveness with long-term planning. Penix’s injury represents another hurdle, but Atlanta’s coaches and players remain vocal in their commitment to supporting their young quarterback and navigating the season’s challenges with professionalism. Despite setbacks, the Falcons maintain optimism about Penix’s future and the strength of their quarterback room heading into the remaining schedule.