Michael Penix Jr. Set to Start Week 3
Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. has been named the starter for Thursday night’s game at the Green Bay Packers, according to reports Monday. Penix has not played this season while recovering from a torn ACL in his left knee.
Penix was hurt in Week 11 of last season against the Carolina Panthers. He went on injured reserve on Nov. 17 and had surgery two days later. In nine games last season, he completed 60.1 percent of his passes for 1,982 yards, nine touchdowns and three interceptions.
Atlanta has played without him in both games. Tua Tagovailoa was named the Week 1 starter, but an oblique injury in practice ruled him out before the Pittsburgh Steelers game. Cooper Rush started instead and completed 12 of 22 passes for 143 yards, with one touchdown and two interceptions in a 20-13 loss on Sept. 13. Tagovailoa was listed as doubtful and inactive for Sunday’s 34-3 loss to Carolina. Rush started again. Jack Strand also played.
Penix had been a full participant in practice for two weeks, according to reports. He was ruled out for Week 2. Head coach Kevin Stefanski was asked Sunday whether Penix would play Thursday. “I don’t think now’s the time to know,” he said. Stefanski also said the team was “not pleased” with the offense two games into the season.
Atlanta has scored just 16 points through two games, and somehow they have not run an offensive play in the red zone this season. Drake London caught four passes for 51 yards on five targets against Carolina. Kyle Pitts caught one pass for 15 yards on three targets.
Fantasy Impact
Michael Penix is an upgrade and should boost the fantasy value of many Falcons players. However, it’s a short week, so the timing could be better, as they are scheduled to play Thursday against the Green Bay Packers. The Packers are also struggling early in the season, which means Penix’s first game back could bring some offense.
Patience is key here; if Penix can come in and help the offense move the ball, players like Drake London and Bijan Robinson should regain value and production.
