ATL Standard

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — Michael Penix Jr. expressed his readiness and excitement after being named the starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons. Despite his enthusiasm, Penix maintained a calm demeanor during his first press conference in this new role.

Penix shared an amusing moment when he received the call from Falcons offensive coordinator Zac Robinson about his promotion while waiting in line at Costco. "I got a lot of feelings," Penix said. "I don't know what they are, but I'm just ready to play."

The decision to start Penix was announced on Tuesday, with head coach Raheem Morris citing Kirk Cousins' recent increase in turnovers as a factor. Cousins will serve as backup for the first time in ten years and has offered his support to Penix. "I just let him know I'd be in his corner and supporting him and trying to help him any way I can," Cousins stated.

Coaches have begun consulting with Penix first during film reviews, marking a shift from previous practices where Cousins held that position. Wednesday's practice saw Penix working exclusively with the first-team offense through 70 plays.

Robinson praised Penix's composure: "His heart just beats very slow, which is a good thing." The transition continues with extra field time planned for Thursday's practice to aid coordination with receivers.

Penix emphasized staying true to himself amid these changes: "I don't feel like I got to be anybody else... Just be myself." Since joining Atlanta as the No. 8 overall draft pick, he has prepared consistently as if he were always the starter.

Although not his NFL debut—having appeared briefly against Seattle Seahawks and Denver Broncos—Sunday will be significant for Penix as he takes on the New York Giants at Mercedes-Benz Stadium as the starting quarterback. Reflecting on this upcoming game, he admitted some nerves but also readiness: "I'm going to be nervous running out of that tunnel... I'm ready to go."