The Atlanta Falcons drafted Michael Penix Jr. with the No. 8 overall choice in the 2024 NFL Draft, aiming to establish him as their franchise quarterback. However, following changes in the team’s leadership, Penix’s future with the Falcons is now uncertain. This shift was underscored this week when ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith suggested the Falcons already regret selecting Penix.
Smith clarified that his criticism was not about Penix’s talent but about other concerns shared with him. He highlighted that Penix frequently lines up in shotgun formations rather than under center, attributing this to physical limitations.
I think so, and it’s not about his game, because the brother can play,
Smith said on First Take.
I’m going to tell you what I was told.
You see him lined up in the shotgun most of the time because it’s difficult for him to line up under center,
Smith added.
He has to bend his knees too much. I mean, damn.
This observation relates closely to Penix’s history of knee injuries, which plays a significant role in the Falcons’ current evaluation of him. The 25-year-old is in recovery from his third torn ACL, an injury that kept him sidelined during the 2025 season and affects his mobility.
When that’s the reason why you’re in shotgun formation most of the time, that is problematic,
Smith emphasized.
Ongoing Injury Concerns Cloud Penix’s Prospects
Penix underwent ACL reconstruction surgery in November 2025, with a projected nine to twelve months before full recovery. His injury history had always cast a shadow over his potential, influencing some analysts to predict he would be selected later in the draft despite his clear skill set.
With the Falcons now led by new head coach Kevin Stefanski, general manager Ian Cunningham, and president of football Matt Ryan, the organization appears open to reevaluating their quarterback plans. Discussions about Penix’s role are ongoing, and no long-term assurances have been made.
When addressing Penix’s status recently, Ryan expressed cautious optimism about the quarterback’s rehabilitation but avoided guaranteeing Penix’s future with the team.
Quarterback’s obviously very important, and we’re excited about Mike and what he’s doing with his rehab,
Ryan said.
I’ve been up at the facility the last three weeks, and Michael’s been in there attacking that and he’s in a good space right now. So we’re excited about where he’s at. But certainly, a lot of discussions for us about the entire roster.
Stephen A. Smith Highlights Matt Ryan’s Transparent Approach
Smith praised Matt Ryan for his candidness regarding the quarterback situation, noting that Ryan’s message signaled a lack of commitment to any one player. Smith suggested this could indicate the Falcons’ uncertainty about having a quarterback capable of leading the team effectively.
I want to applaud Matt Ryan,
Smith stated.
He’s like, the quarterback position is important, and we ain’t committing to nobody.
He referenced Atlanta’s previous investment in Kirk Cousins, who was paid nearly $90 million over two seasons despite the team reaching only one playoff appearance. Smith implied that Penix’s injury troubles contribute to the Falcons’ hesitation.
Smith stressed the immediate importance of finding a reliable quarterback:
You need a quarterback, Smith said.
So if you’re Matt Ryan, what you’re saying is clearly we’re not good enough.
Summarizing Atlanta’s quarterback dilemma, Smith bluntly remarked:
We (Falcons) don’t have either guy that’s good enough for what we need,
he commented.
Implications for Atlanta’s Quarterback Future
The Falcons now face a challenging decision on how to proceed with the quarterback position, balancing Penix’s upside against his injury risks. The new leadership team’s cautious stance suggests the possibility of exploring alternatives beyond Penix to build a stronger, healthier roster. Atlanta’s next moves will be closely watched by fans hoping for stability at the most critical position.
"I think so, and it’s not about his game. … You see him lined in the shotgun most of the time because it’s difficult for him to line up under center because he has to bend his knees too much. I mean damn."
—@stephenasmith on if the Falcons should regret drafting Michael Penix… pic.twitter.com/6oPJWqEwnK
— First Take (@FirstTake) February 4, 2026
