Michael Penix Jr. has largely made the most of his three NFL starts, with several now questioning why the Falcons didn’t bench Kirk Cousins earlier in the season. But hindsight is 20/20, and it’s clear things are on the right track at the quarterback position.

The Falcons found their future franchise quarterback in Michael Penix after his performance in the final three games of the regular season. It was clear he’s the guy but it won’t matter if the defense doesn’t elevate.

Finally, head coach Raheem Morris benched Cousins for rookie Michael Penix Jr. in Week 16. The Falcons offense took a major leap with Penix under center, but they still finished with an 8-9 record and missed the playoffs for a seventh consecutive season.

Because Week 17 began on a Wednesday, NFL.com's Nick Shook didn't rank every starting quarterback as he usually does last Thursday. But after waiting another week, Atlanta Falcons fans can see where Shook ranked quarterback Michael Penix Jr. following his first two NFL starts.

Former Atlanta Falcons quarterback and now Analyst for the Atlanta Falcons Radio Network Dave Archer tells The Morning Shift why he thinks Falcons rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. took the next step as an NFL quarterback yesterday.

The Falcons lost in overtime again on Sunday despite the offense putting up over 500 yards of offense and 38 points in regulation. The defense, however, was putrid, which was somewhat surprising given the improvement the unit had shown since the team’s bye week.

Despite an overtime loss to the Carolina Panthers, Atlanta Falcons receiver Drake London capped off a career-best season with a now career-defining performance. The former USC Trojans receiver exploded for a ten-reception,