Could Michael Penix Jr. start week one for the Atlanta Falcons?

The only path Michael Penix Jr. has into this year’s roster is injuries or if Kirk Cousins ​​isn’t ready to go in week one. Looking at Kirk’s recovery timetable and the fact that he’s already playing with Atlanta’s receivers, it’s very unlikely that he won’t be ready for week one. Penix Jr. will likely sit on the bench, with the veteran understanding the importance of being ready for Week 1.

While being cautious and starting Taylor Heinicke if Cousins ​​needed additional time was on the table, there should be no doubt now that Cousins ​​will be ready for Week 1. Throwing with Atlanta’s receivers is far from ready for full contact but it’s an important step.

Being ready for week one is a no-brainer if you don’t want Penix Jr. to have a chance at winning over the fan base. The second part is the fact that this season is extremely important to the front office and head coach.

You can’t afford to put a rookie quarterback in for the first game of the season if possible. Kirk Cousins ​​might be offended by Atlanta’s change at the position, but the quarterback remains the starter and focal point of the offense for at least the next two years.

That’s not going to change based not on his play or his value to the team, but on what the contract requires. Cousins ​​can’t be cut or traded for at least two years without taking a huge cap hit that damages your roster. It’s far more responsible for Atlanta to simply sit back and let Penix learn behind Cousins ​​over the next couple of years before starting to weigh his options.

Kirk Cousins ​​​​is the QB1 of this team and that is not going to change regardless of his level of play. Atlanta gave him a contract that gives him security for at least the next two seasons.