Could Falcons pull a 2012 Seahawks with Michael Penix Jr.?

That would be an unexpected development, perhaps even more so than in 2012 when Seahawks rookie third-round pick Russell Wilson beat out their highly prized free agent-quarterback, Matt Flynn, for the starting quarterback job.

Cousins signed for considerably more money than Flynn, who agreed to a three-year, $26 million contract. But like Cousins, Flynn signed expecting to be named the team's starter.

In Florio's hypothetical situation, Penix would only start over Cousins due to injury. But if Penix is as ready as the Falcons believe he is, then it's possible he could take the starting job and never look back.

In Seattle's case, former head coach Pete Caroll's decision worked well. In Wilson's second season, he led the Seahawks to their first (and only) Super Bowl championship.

Cousins, who signed a four-year, $180 million contract with the Falcons during free agency, has participated in training camp.

And by all accounts, while he hasn't played in the preseason, Cousins is on track to start in Week 1 of the regular season against the Steelers.

It's wild to consider that Penix could be the Week 1 starter over Cousins, but considering Atlanta's perplexing actions, it's fair to apply some cynicism.