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Falcons Keeping QB Options Open Despite Penix Jr. Potential
New coach Kevin Stefanski non-committal on starting role for injured quarterback
Published on Mar. 2, 2026
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In his first comments at the NFL Combine, new Atlanta Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski was non-committal on whether Michael Penix Jr. will be the team's starting quarterback when healthy, saying he doesn't like to "give out positions in February." Stefanski indicated the Falcons will keep their options open at the position despite Penix Jr.'s potential.
Why it matters
The Falcons are in a transitional period with a new head coach and questions at the quarterback position. Stefanski's comments suggest the team may be looking to add competition at QB rather than handing the job to Penix Jr. by default, which could have implications for the team's draft and free agency plans.
The details
Penix Jr. was acquired by the Falcons last season and showed promise before suffering a season-ending injury. Stefanski, who is entering his first year as Falcons head coach, said he wants to keep the team's options open at QB rather than committing to any one player this early in the offseason.
- The comments were made by Stefanski at the 2026 NFL Combine on March 2, 2026.
The players
Kevin Stefanski
The new head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, who was hired in the offseason after previously serving as the offensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns.
Michael Penix Jr.
The quarterback acquired by the Falcons last season, who showed promise before suffering a season-ending injury.
What they’re saying
“Yeah, not big on giving out positions in February, I think you guys know how I feel”
— Kevin Stefanski, Head Coach, Atlanta Falcons
What’s next
The Falcons will continue to evaluate their quarterback options in the coming months, including through the NFL Draft and free agency, before determining their starter for the 2026 season.
The takeaway
Stefanski's non-committal stance on Penix Jr. as the Falcons' starting QB suggests the team may be looking to add competition at the position, rather than handing the job to him by default. This could lead to an interesting quarterback battle in Atlanta during the offseason.
