Michael Penix Jr. has largely made the most of his three NFL starts, with several now questioning why the Falcons didn’t bench Kirk Cousins earlier in the season. But hindsight is 20/20, and it’s clear things are on the right track at the quarterback position.

Falcons head coach Raheem Morris gave massive props to Michael Penix Jr. after season-ending loss to the Carolina Panthers.

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — Michael Penix Jr. will make his third start for the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. It probably will be the final start of his rookie season, but that’s enough for head coach Raheem Morris to feel validated for selecting Penix eighth in last year’s draft.

Michael Penix Jr.’s former head coach and offensive coordinator Kalen DeBoer was in attendance for Sunday’s finale

Penix found London in the back corner of the end zone for a 20-yard touchdown strike to put the Atlanta Falcons ahead, 24-17, on the Carolina Panthers with 37 seconds left in the

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With the game on the line, Penix stood tall. It didn’t lead to a win, but it’s a source of hope for the Falcons.

Because Week 17 began on a Wednesday, NFL.com's Nick Shook didn't rank every starting quarterback as he usually does last Thursday. But after waiting another week, Atlanta Falcons fans can see where Shook ranked quarterback Michael Penix Jr. following his first two NFL starts.

The Atlanta Falcons couldn’t get the win over the Carolina Panthers to close out the season, but they were eliminated from the playoff race before their 44-38 overtime loss ended. While the team’s offensive performance was encouraging,