Falcons coach Raheem Morris firmly dismissed any notion of a quarterback controversy in Atlanta, despite the team’s recent draft decision.
Just one month after signing veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to a four-year contract, the Falcons surprised many by selecting Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. with the No. 8 overall pick in this year’s NFL draft.
Morris addressed the media in the Falcons’ post-draft press conference, reassuring that the choice to draft Penix does not mean Cousins needs to constantly look over his shoulder.
RELATED: Michael Penix Jr. Reveals That He Talked With Kirk Cousins After Being Drafted By Atlanta Falcons
“We came up with a decision, this is what we plan to do. And Kirk does not have to look over his shoulder every time he throws a bad pass,” Morris explained. “So I know I’m going to have to tell you guys once or twice that that is not the case.”
The selection of Penix, unexpected by many including Cousins, marked a significant talking point of the draft. Morris, who was appointed as the Falcons’ head coach on February 5, 2024, acknowledged the potential for criticism following the draft choice, especially given the timing after signing Cousins.
“I hate for it to be like the story of the draft. I know it will be. That’s just how our world is based and is driven,” Morris said, humorously adding, “It’s what people want to see; it’s piqued more interest. What’s (Travis) Kelce’s girlfriend’s name? I feel like her right now. I’m Taylor Swift and Terry (Fontenot, the general manager) is Kelce, I guess.”
Morris emphasized the importance of having a succession plan, particularly given Cousins’ age of 35 and his recovery from a season-ending Achilles injury last year.
Penix shared that he and Cousins had a positive conversation following the draft announcement, though he chose to keep the details private. “We had a very good conversation,” Penix revealed. “I’m going to keep (the conversation) just between me and him right now, but it was definitely a good conversation. I’m super excited to work with him and he said he’s the same with me.”
