The Atlanta Falcons lost Saturday’s game to the Baltimore Ravens, 13-12, but rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. was nowhere to be seen. The team was extra cautious following last week’s injury-riddled loss to the Miami Dolphins, but fans were bummed that Penix was held out.
Atlanta’s first-round pick had a solid debut and since he’s not likely to play in the regular season, it was somewhat surprising not to see the rookie out there. Falcons head coach Raheem Morris explained the team’s decision to sit Penix following Saturday’s game.
“Mike showed us last week enough that we don’t have to play him again in the preseason,” Morris told reporters in his postgame press conference.
Falcons head coach Raheem Morris on sitting quarterback Michael Penix Jr.: "Mike showed us last week enough that we don't have to play him again in the preseason."
— Terrin Waack (@TerrinWaack) August 17, 2024
So just like that, Penix is done for the preseason. Atlanta gave an extended look at backups Taylor Heinicke and John Paddock in Saturday’s game. Heinicke completed eight of 16 passes for 114 passing yards. Paddock finished nine of 17 for 78 passing yards.
The Falcons scored a late touchdown behind rookie running back Jase McClellan but missed the two-point conversion that would have likely won the game.
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