ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - As if the 2025 season can’t get any worse, it has.

On Monday, the Atlanta Falcons announced it has placed starting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. on injured reserve, and that million-dollar backup quarterback Kirk Cousins will start at least the next four games.

Penix injured his left knee in Sunday’s game against the Carolina Panthers.

Prior to the injury, Penix was playing well after his uneven season so far. The Falcons - now losers of five straight - were leading 21-16 against the Carolina Panthers. Penix was 13 of 16 for 175 yards in just over two quarters when he was hit by safety Tre’von Moehrig just after he released the ball on third down.

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