3 Most likely paths for Michael Penix Jr. to become Atlanta's starter

3. Michael Penix Jr. starts in 2025

To be clear this is the third most likely path for Penix and remains extremely unlikely. It is almost just as probable that Cousins plays out his contract as the team is willing to eat the deal next year. However, we have seen that talent trumps all and if Penix continues to progress and Cousins were to struggle the choice is obvious.

Raheem Morris is on a clock to bring Atlanta back to the playoffs for the first time since 2017. If Cousins fails to do that this season someone is going to have to pay and it could be Kirk. Eating a dead cap hit this high would be shocking but it isn't off the table if Cousins and Atlanta don't win the division.

Cousins is playing under pressure even with such immense financial security. The Falcons understand the urgency they are facing and if this year doesn't go their way Cousins or GM Terry Fontenot seem the most likely fall guys.

Owner Arthur Blank's history tells us that Morris is going to be given patience. Changes and results are expected, however, and if year one doesn't go his way taking on a ridiculous dead cap hit could suddenly be a discussion.