Falcons Make Big Decision On Michael Penix Jr. Vs. Taylor Heinicke Backup QB Race

Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. was drafted eighth overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, a selection that surprised millions of football fans considering Owner Arthur M. Blank's team signed Kirk Cousins to a massive deal in the offseason.

On Wednesday, the Falcons unveiled their official depth chart ahead of Friday's preseason game vs. Tua Tagovailoa and Mike McDaniels' Miami Dolphins.

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According to AtlantaFalcons.com, Penix Jr. officially beat out former Washington Commanders quarterback Taylor Heinicke for the second-string quarterback job.

Coach Raheem Morris' team finished near the bottom of the NFL in passing yards per game last season with an average just over 207.

The Falcons brought in Cousins, who passed for 2,331 yards in limited action (eight games) with the Vikings last season, to be their starter.

Cousins passed for over 4,500 yards the previous season in 17 games.

Penix Jr. passed for 4,903 yards and 36 touchdowns last season for the Huskies, who went undefeated during the regular season en route to a title game appearance vs. Jim Harbaugh and Sherrone Moore's Michigan Wolverines.

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