Falcons Expected to Start Kirk Cousins Amid Penix Knee Injury

The Atlanta Falcons are expected to start veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins in their upcoming game against the Miami Dolphins due to an injury to starter Michael Penix Jr., who suffered a bone bruise in his left knee during a recent loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Penix has been limited in practice and was listed as questionable, prompting Cousins to take significant reps with the first-team offense throughout the week. Falcons coach Raheem Morris expressed confidence in Cousins as a reliable backup while acknowledging Penix's toughness and potential to play if possible. Cousins, who has been benched previously after struggling with interceptions, is preparing for his first NFL start since December 2024 and has a four-year, $180 million contract with the Falcons. The quarterback decision will ultimately be made on game day, but all signs point to Cousins leading the team in an effort to stabilize their 3-3 season record. This decision marks an important moment for the Falcons as they seek to secure a vital win at home against the Dolphins.