Penix will miss at least four games and could be out for the season after suffering a knee injury. Kirk Cousins will start in his place.

When you thought the Atlanta Falcons' season couldn't get much worse for the product on the field and its fans, well, think again!

As the Atlanta Falcons continue to spiral, injury was added to insult.

No one would blame you if you looked at this weekend’s matchup against the Carolina Panthers and the Atlanta Falcons and wondered aloud: Who are these guys? Because, quite frankly, both of them are difficult to figure out.

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix will be placed on injured reserve and will miss at least four games with a left knee injury, leaving Kirk Cousins as the starter.

Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales, facing, greets quarterback Bryce Young (9) celebrates after an overtime victory over the Atlanta Falcons in an NFL football game, Nov. 16, 2025, in Atlanta. Credit: AP/Brynn Anderson

Pearce has been one of the league’s best rookie edge rushers this season. Per PFF, He is currently second amongst all rookie edge rushers in total pressures (23), second in hurries (18), third in sacks (3.0) and fourth in win percentage (11.7%).

Falcons head coach Raheem Morris comments on injuries to Drake London, Michael Penix Jr., Divine Deablo and Matthew Bergeron.