What Happened to Michael Penix Jr.? Falcons QB Injury Update Explained

Atlanta Falcons rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is sidelined in Week 8 of the 2025 NFL season due to a knee injury. The team confirmed that veteran Kirk Cousins would start against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, October 26, as Penix continues his recovery.

Penix, who has been Atlanta’s starter since early this season, suffered a bone bruise in his left knee during the Falcons’ Week 7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Despite finishing that game, he was ruled “questionable” in the following week’s injury report and later made inactive ahead of kickoff.

Michael Penix Jr.’s Injury Details and Recovery Timeline

According to reports from USA TODAY and team insiders, Michael Penix Jr. sustained a bone bruise — a painful but non-structural knee injury that typically requires short-term rest and rehabilitation. The incident occurred late in the Falcons’ Week 7 matchup when Penix took a hit while scrambling in the pocket.

Falcons head coach Raheem Morris confirmed that Penix had practiced in a limited capacity during the week leading up to the Miami game but was not cleared for full contact. The team chose caution over risk, opting to start Cousins instead of rushing their young quarterback back too soon.

“We’re confident in Michael’s progress,” Morris reportedly said during a media availability. “He wanted to go, but we want him fully healthy for the long stretch of the season.”

Bone bruises generally take one to three weeks to heal, depending on severity. Given that Penix finished Week 7 and continued limited practice, there’s 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 inactive, the Falcons’ quarterback room for Week 8 features Kirk Cousins as the starter and Easton Stick as the backup. Stick was elevated from the practice squad to the active roster for Sunday’s matchup. Because of this move, Penix cannot serve as the emergency third quarterback, per NFL rules, which require all three QBs to be on the 53-man roster for such designation.

Cousins, 37, is getting his first start of the 2025 season after serving primarily as a mentor to Penix. He has completed five of seven passes for 29 yards in limited action this year. His veteran presence could stabilize the offense against a tough Dolphins defense.

The Falcons enter Week 8 with a 3–4 record and will aim to stay in playoff contention while protecting their long-term investment in Penix. The rookie has shown flashes of potential, throwing for over 1,500 yards and nine touchdowns so far this season.

What This Means for Atlanta’s Season

Atlanta’s cautious handling of Penix’s injury underscores the team’s confidence in his future. The Falcons drafted him to be their franchise quarterback, and preserving his health remains the top priority. Cousins’ start gives the offense a chance to stay competitive while Penix recovers fully.

Fans can expect updates on Penix’s practice participation early next week. If his knee responds well, he may return to action as soon as Week 9 against the New Orleans Saints.

Michael Penix Jr.’s injury appears minor but significant enough to sideline him temporarily. The Falcons hope resting him now ensures he remains healthy for the remainder of the 2025 campaign.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened to Michael Penix Jr.?

He suffered a bone bruise in his left knee during Week 7 against the 49ers and was ruled inactive for Week 8.

Q2: Who is starting for the Falcons in Week 8?

Kirk Cousins is starting at quarterback against the Miami Dolphins while Penix recovers.

Q3: When could Michael Penix Jr. return?

Penix may return by Week 9 or Week 10, depending on his recovery progress and medical clearance.

Q4: What type of injury is a bone bruise?

A bone bruise is a microfracture or deep contusion of the bone, often painful but typically short-term with proper rest.

Q5: What is the Falcons’ record entering Week 8?

The Falcons enter Week 8 with a 3–4 record and are trying to stay alive in the NFC playoff race.