Atlanta Falcons rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is out for Week 8 of the 2025 NFL season due to a knee injury, the team confirmed on Sunday, October 26. Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins will start against the Miami Dolphins as Penix continues his recovery. The injury occurred in Week 7 against the San Francisco 49ers, and although Penix finished that game, he was later ruled inactive. Falcons coaches emphasized caution to protect their young quarterback for the remainder of the season.
What Happened to Michael Penix Jr.?
Michael Penix Jr., Atlanta’s starting quarterback since early this season, suffered a bone bruise in his left knee during the Falcons’ Week 7 loss to the 49ers. The injury occurred late in the game when Penix scrambled in the pocket and took a direct hit. Bone bruises, while non-structural, are painful and require rest and rehabilitation to avoid long-term complications. Despite completing the game, Penix was listed as “questionable” in the following week’s injury report. Leading up to Sunday’s matchup with the Dolphins, he participated in limited practices but was not cleared for full contact. Falcons head coach Raheem Morris confirmed the team prioritized Penix’s long-term health over a rushed return.
“Michael showed he wanted to play, but we want him fully healthy for the stretch run,” Morris said. “We’re confident in his progress and will take the proper steps to get him back safely.” Bone bruises typically heal within one to three weeks. Given Penix’s ability to finish Week 7 and continue practicing in a limited capacity, there is optimism he could return by Week 9 or Week 10, depending on his response to treatment.
Falcons QB Depth and Week 8 Outlook
With Penix sidelined, the Falcons have turned to Kirk Cousins as their starter for Week 8. Cousins, 37, has seen limited action this season, completing five of seven passes for 29 yards. His veteran presence is expected to stabilize Atlanta’s offense against the Dolphins’ defense.
Backup quarterback Easton Stick was elevated from the practice squad to the active roster for Sunday’s game. Due to NFL roster rules, Penix cannot serve as the emergency third quarterback since all three active QBs must be on the 53-man roster.
The Falcons enter Week 8 with a 3–4 record, aiming to remain competitive while preserving Penix’s future. The rookie has thrown for over 1,500 yards and nine touchdowns, showing enough potential to justify careful management of his recovery.
How Penix’s Absence Affects Atlanta
Atlanta’s decision to sit Penix underscores their commitment to him as a franchise quarterback. While Cousins provides experience and steady leadership, the team faces a short-term adjustment period on offense. Fans may notice changes in play-calling as the coaching staff leans on safer, less aggressive schemes to accommodate Cousins’ style.
The Falcons’ playoff hopes remain alive, but each game carries added pressure with a backup starter at quarterback. Analysts have highlighted that protecting Penix now could prevent more serious injuries, allowing him to play consistently during the season’s second half. For the Dolphins matchup, Atlanta will likely rely on short passes, quarterback runs by Cousins when needed, and a strong contribution from the running backs and receivers. If Cousins can maintain efficiency, the team may stay in playoff contention without risking Penix’s health.
What’s Next for Michael Penix Jr. and the Falcons
The Falcons are closely monitoring Penix’s progress. Coaches plan to provide updates on his practice participation early next week. If his knee responds well, Penix could return as soon as Week 9 against the New Orleans Saints. Medical staff will continue rehabilitation exercises, ice treatments, and light drills to ensure the bone bruise fully heals before he resumes contact. The goal is to have Penix fully healthy, reducing the risk of setbacks that could derail his rookie season.
For fans, the next update will be critical in understanding whether Atlanta’s franchise quarterback will resume his role promptly. Meanwhile, Cousins’ performance in Week 8 will help determine how the offense manages in Penix’s temporary absence. Michael Penix Jr.’s injury appears minor but significant enough to require a short-term sidelining. The Falcons are optimistic that resting him now ensures he remains healthy for the remainder of the 2025 campaign and continues his development as the team’s long-term quarterback solution.
