Falcons to Hold Out Penix, Cousins in Preseason Opener vs. Lions

ATLANTA — The Atlanta Falcons will open their preseason schedule Friday night at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium against the Detroit Lions, but fans hoping to see Michael Penix Jr. or Kirk Cousins take the field will have to wait.

Head coach Raheem Morris confirmed this week that both quarterbacks will sit out the game, opting instead to give extended reps to backups Easton Stick and Emory Jones.

“Penix won’t get out there, Kirk won’t get out there,” Morris said. “That’s probably the most definitive thing I can tell you right now. We’ll see Stick, we’ll see Emory. There will be a lot of guys playing… and a couple that won’t.”

The decision reflects Atlanta’s cautious approach to the preseason, prioritizing health and depth evaluation over exposing its top passers to unnecessary risk.

Protecting the Quarterbacks

Penix, entering his first full season as the Falcons’ starting quarterback, flashed promise last year with 775 yards, three touchdowns and three interceptions in limited action. Cousins, who signed a four‑year deal in 2024, will back him up this season. With both expected to play pivotal roles in Atlanta’s playoff push, Morris isn’t taking chances.

Instead, the offense will run through Stick and Jones, giving coaches a clearer look at how the backups manage game flow and command the huddle.

Spotlight on Roster Battles

Beyond the quarterback room, Friday’s matchup serves as a proving ground for players vying for roster spots. Expect heavy rotations at wide receiver, offensive line, and in the secondary as the Falcons begin shaping their 53‑man roster.

For the Lions, facing Atlanta’s reserve quarterbacks offers an opportunity to sharpen their pass rush and build confidence on defense, especially after a shaky showing in last week’s Hall of Fame Game.

The Bigger Picture

While some fans may be disappointed not to see Penix or Cousins under the bright lights, the preseason is less about star power and more about evaluation. Morris made it clear the focus is on development and avoiding injuries.

“Friday’s game is about finding out who’s ready to step up,” he said. “That’s what this time of year is for.”

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium.