New Falcons Leadership Casts Doubt on Michael Penix's Future

Atlanta's new president of football operations suggests the team may explore other QB options this offseason.

Feb. 3, 2026 at 8:23pm

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The Atlanta Falcons' new leadership team, including president of football operations Matt Ryan, are not committing to Michael Penix Jr. as the team's franchise quarterback going forward. Ryan acknowledged that 'conversations' need to be had about the Falcons' quarterback room, raising questions about Penix's status despite him being the team's first-round pick just two years ago.

Why it matters

As the Falcons' 2024 first-round selection, Penix was expected to be the team's long-term answer at quarterback. However, the new regime's hesitation to fully endorse him suggests they may be open to bringing in competition or even moving on from Penix entirely, which would be a significant shift in the team's plans.

The details

Penix has started 12 games for the Falcons over the past two seasons, going 4-8 in those starts. While he was the 8th overall pick in 2024, he has yet to establish himself as the team's clear franchise QB, similar to Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy who was selected two picks after Penix. With a new president, GM, and head coach taking over in Atlanta, the Falcons appear poised to reevaluate their quarterback situation this offseason.

  • Penix was the Falcons' first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
  • Penix has started 12 games for the Falcons over the past two seasons.

The players

Michael Penix Jr.

The Atlanta Falcons' starting quarterback the past two seasons, who was the team's first-round pick in 2024.

Matt Ryan

The new president of football operations for the Atlanta Falcons.

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What they’re saying

“Neither of us are the head coach of the football team, so we can't answer your question on that. I think as we start to get into this process and dive deeper into the roster — how it currently stands, where it's going in the future — I think those are conversations that'll be a part of it. Quarterback's obviously very important, and we're excited about Mike and what he's doing with his rehab. I've been up at the facility the last three weeks, and Michael's been in there attacking that and he's in a good space right now, so we're excited about where he is at. But certainly, a lot of discussions for us about the entire roster.”

— Matt Ryan, President of Football Operations (sportsnaut.com)

What’s next

The Falcons will need to decide whether to commit to Penix as their long-term starting quarterback or explore other options, either through the draft, free agency, or potential trades.

The takeaway

The new leadership in Atlanta is not ready to fully endorse Michael Penix Jr. as the Falcons' franchise quarterback, raising questions about his future with the team and suggesting the team may seek to add more competition at the position this offseason.