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Carolina Panthers v Atlanta Falcons - NFL 2025
Source: Jonathan Bachman / Getty

UPDATED: November 19, 2025 @ 11:34 am

In a devastating turn of events for the Atlanta Falcons, quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is set to have surgery on his left knee, effectively ending his season.

The Falcons initially reported on Monday (Nov. 17) that Penix will be placed on injury reserve and would miss a minimum of four games. After receiving a second opinion from medical personnel, the team confirmed on Wednesday, “After further medical evaluation, it has been determined Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. will undergo season-ending surgery for a partially torn ACL.”

Penix suffered the injury during Sunday’s narrow 30-27 overtime loss to the Carolina Panthers. The injury occurred in the third quarter as Penix was blitzed by the Panthers’ defense, forcing him to exit the game early.

The Falcons, who have been battling for playoff contention, will now turn to veteran Kirk Cousins to lead the offense beginning with their matchup against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday. Easton Stick, who has been on the Falcons’ practice squad, will presumably be the backup QB.

Penix, who has been a standout performer for the Falcons, was instrumental in keeping the team competitive in a tightly contested NFC South division. His absence will undoubtedly test the depth and resilience of the Falcons’ roster as they look to regroup and push forward.

The Falcons’ next game will be a critical test as they adjust to life without their star quarterback. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team adapts under Cousins’ leadership.

Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available on Penix’s condition and the Falcons’ plans moving forward.