Falcons rookie QB discusses whether he would be ready to replace Kirk Cousins

In his postgame news conference, Falcons head coach Raheem Morris said he won't turn to Penix. The rookie QB indicated he understands the decision and that the 13-year veteran could rebound. 

"[Cousins] is a vet," Penix said Monday, per ESPN's Marc Raimondi. "He's been in a lot of different situations, so I have no doubt he's going to bounce back from this and he's going to be great for us this weekend and for the rest of the season."

The eighth overall pick of the 2024 NFL Draft added he's still preparing to start at some point. 

"I have to be, because you never know when the opportunity [comes]," Penix said. "So, I always stay ready, but at the end of the day, like I said, it's not up to me. I just got to continue to be ready, stay ready for that moment whenever it is."   

Benching Cousins — who's in the first year of a four-year, $180M deal — seems drastic. Through 12 starts, he has a 6-6 record and has completed 67.4% of his passes for 17 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. 

However, the Falcons' playoff chances could dwindle after losing their past three games. During this skid, Cousins has six interceptions and no touchdown passes.

Penix, 24, is more experienced than the typical rookie QB. The 2023 Heisman finalist started in 48 games in six seasons at Indiana and Washington. He may excel with Atlanta's playmakers, including running back Bijan Robinson and wide receiver Drake London. 

More importantly, the Falcons must find out whether Penix can be the face of the franchise. If Cousins' slide continues, it would certainly be an excellent time to do that.