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Falcons Turn to Kirk Cousins After Penix Injury

10/26/2025

47 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Atlanta Falcons will start the Falcons' quarterback Kirk Cousins in Week 8 against the Miami Dolphins because Michael Penix Jr. sustained a knee injury.
Michael Penix Jr. suffered a bone bruise during the Falcons' loss to the San Francisco 49ers and was limited in practice.
Coach Raheem Morris expressed confidence in Kirk Cousins, who has not started since Week 15 of 2024.

Summary

Story summary

The Atlanta Falcons will face the Miami Dolphins with quarterback Michael Penix Jr. sidelined by a knee bone bruise.
Kirk Cousins will start in Penix's place for the Falcons, with kickoff at 1 p.m. at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The Falcons have elevated Easton Stick to the backup quarterback role.
Tyler Allgeier is listed as questionable but will play against the Dolphins.
Zach Harrison is inactive for the game.

History

Historical Context

The NFL's quarterback landscape has evolved significantly since the 2010s, with dual-threat quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson and Cam Newton gaining prominence. In 2021, injuries to starters like Jimmy Garoppolo forced teams to rely on rookies, highlighting the importance of depth. Jackson, who became the first quarterback with multiple 1,000-yard rushing seasons, exemplifies the shift towards mobile quarterbacks in the league.

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Story summary

The Atlanta Falcons will start the Falcons' quarterback Kirk Cousins in Week 8 against the Miami Dolphins because Michael Penix Jr. sustained a knee injury.
Michael Penix Jr. suffered a bone bruise during the Falcons' loss to the San Francisco 49ers and was limited in practice.
Coach Raheem Morris expressed confidence in Kirk Cousins, who has not started since Week 15 of 2024.

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