The Atlanta Falcons remain undecided about whether Michael Penix Jr. will be their starting quarterback for the 2026 season as he continues to recover from a torn left ACL suffered in 2025. Head coach Kevin Stefanski expressed cautious optimism but refrained from confirming Penix’s role, emphasizing the quarterback’s focus on rehabilitation. Due to Penix’s history of knee injuries and inconsistent performance prior to the injury, the Falcons’ new management team is adopting a wait-and-see approach toward his availability and future with the team.
“I’m not big on giving out positions in February. I think you guys know how I feel about Michael, and I’m excited about his trajectory. I also know he’s focused on his rehab, which is the right thing to do,”
Stefanski said.
While Penix is optimistic about being ready to play at the start of the 2026 regular season, a clearer picture of his health and role won’t emerge until later this summer. Having suffered three ACL tears in total, Penix faces an uphill battle to regain full confidence from the Falcons’ front office and coaching staff. His injury history has already tempered enthusiasm among fantasy football managers, despite his determination to reclaim the starting job. For dynasty league participants, this could present an opportunity to acquire Penix at a reduced value, although uncertainties remain significant given his medical record.
Falcons’ Moves to Secure Key Offensive Players
Alongside the continued evaluation of their quarterback situation, the Falcons have taken firm steps to retain other offensive assets heading into 2026. Tight end Kyle Pitts Sr. has been tagged with the franchise designation, a move that signals the team’s desire to keep him in Atlanta while buying time to assess his long-term fit under new leadership.
The franchise tag on Pitts represents only the fourth instance in Falcons history that the designation has been applied, the last being on defensive tackle Grady Jarrett in 2019. This non-exclusive tag means Pitts remains free to negotiate with other teams, though the $16 million projected value for tight ends in 2026 underscores the Falcons’ commitment to him.
“He is free to negotiate with other teams,”
the franchise tag’s implications reveal, providing the Falcons leverage as general manager Ian Cunningham and new head coach Kevin Stefanski evaluate Pitts’ role moving forward.
Pitts excelled in 2025, catching 88 passes for 928 yards and matching his career-high of five touchdowns. His performance established him as a top fantasy tight end and a critical offensive weapon. However, questions loom about the team’s offensive consistency, depending on how the quarterback situation unfolds.
Falcons’ Planning to Release Veteran Quarterback Kirk Cousins
The Falcons have announced plans to release veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins as the new league year begins. General manager Ian Cunningham confirmed this decision, which will take effect on March 11. Had Cousins remained on the roster, the Falcons would have been obligated to guarantee $67.9 million to him, a significant financial commitment the team is unwilling to maintain given his declining role and performance.
Cousins, 37, lost his starting position to Michael Penix Jr. late in the 2024 season and served primarily as a backup in 2025 until Penix’s injury. During that year, Cousins posted a career-low 61.7% completion rate, throwing for 1,721 yards, 10 touchdowns, and five interceptions across ten games. While the four-time Pro Bowler remains a viable option for other teams, his time in Atlanta has effectively ended.
Wide Receiver Drake London’s Contract Outlook
Attention is also turning toward wide receiver Drake London, who may secure a new contract this offseason. General manager Ian Cunningham’s proactive approach, which he honed in Chicago, suggests an extension could be on the table for London. Having signed a four-year, $21.53 million deal in 2022, London’s 2026 salary includes a $16.82 million team option. His solid production, including 168 receptions for 2,190 yards and 16 touchdowns over the past two seasons, justifies investment by the Falcons.
Josh Kendall of The Athletic noted,
“could get a new deal this offseason.”
London, 24, is regarded as a top-tier wide receiver. While he envisions a salary in the $30 million range, the Falcons might target a figure closer to $25 million annually. Regardless, London remains integral to the franchise’s offensive future.
Current Fantasy Considerations for Falcons’ Skill Players
Kyle Pitts Sr.’s situation continues to be central for fantasy managers. The Falcons are expected to use the franchise tag on him, guaranteeing a one-year contract worth over $16 million if no long-term deal is reached before the July deadline. Pitts delivered career highs in receptions (88), targets (118), and touchdowns (5) in 2025, finally fulfilling the promise many saw in him during his rookie season. His recent surge in productivity, including impressive performances in the season’s final games, solidifies his status as a top fantasy tight end heading into 2026.
Meanwhile, receiver Darnell Mooney has struggled significantly. After an encouraging 2024, Mooney posted only 32 catches for 443 yards and one touchdown in 2025, hindered by injuries and poor chemistry with quarterbacks. His diminished fantasy value is expected to continue, especially given the Falcons’ uncertainty at quarterback and the impending free agency of Pitts. Competition at wide receiver could intensify in the offseason as the Falcons look to bolster their passing attack.
Running Back Tyler Allgeier’s Role and Future Prospects
Tyler Allgeier’s future with the Falcons is questionable amid a crowded backfield featuring star running back Bijan Robinson. Over four seasons, Allgeier has been productive, rushing for nearly 2,900 yards and scoring 18 touchdowns. His standout rookie season saw a franchise record with 1,035 rushing yards, and he consistently ranks well in efficiency metrics. However, as a backup, his contract demands may not align with the Falcons’ salary structure.
Josh Kendall of The Athletic opined,
“it’s hard to imagine how Atlanta will be able to bring him back.”
Despite Allgeier’s desire to remain, the team’s focus on Robinson as the lead back could push Allgeier toward free agency, where his value may rise. His 2025 campaign included 514 yards and a career-high eight touchdowns, showcasing his ability to contribute in a complementary role.
As a fantasy asset, Allgeier holds value as a reliable backup with standalone potential. He is a strong handcuff option for Robinson owners and remains recommended holding in dynasty leagues, though he also presents a potential buy opportunity depending on the broader running back market.
Falcons’ Front Office and Coaching Staff Approach to Roster Decisions
The Falcons’ new leadership, including president Matt Ryan and general manager Ian Cunningham, are methodically reviewing roster composition without making premature commitments. Ryan commented on Penix’s rehab progress and emphasized ongoing discussions about the entire roster.
“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 is. But certainly, a lot of discussions for us about the entire roster,”
Ryan said.
This measured stance contrasts with the previous regime’s firm commitment to Penix, highlighting a more cautious and strategic outlook toward assembling a competitive roster for 2026 and beyond.
Implications for 2026 Season and Fantasy Football Outlook
The uncertainty surrounding Michael Penix Jr.’s health and starting status could have a ripple effect across the Falcons’ offense in 2026. With Kyle Pitts Sr. likely to remain with the team under the franchise tag and Drake London positioned for a contract extension, the Falcons retain key offensive weapons, but the unknown quarterback situation complicates projected team performance and fantasy value.
Veteran Kirk Cousins’ departure clears the way for the Falcons to explore other quarterback options, either through draft, free agency, or strategic acquisitions, which could alter the offensive dynamics significantly. Running back Tyler Allgeier’s possible exit paired with Bijan Robinson’s ascendance further reshapes the Falcons’ backfield landscape.
Fantasy managers should approach Falcons players with caution, particularly Michael Penix Jr., given the health concerns and organizational indecision. Pitts and London remain high-value assets, though their success is partially contingent on improved quarterback play. Allgeier’s uncertain status suggests a wait-and-see approach, while Mooney’s disappointing season warrants skepticism.
Overall, the Falcons’ offseason decisions and recovery timelines will play crucial roles in determining the team’s competitiveness and the fantasy outlook of its key contributors in the 2026 season.
