The Atlanta Falcons have made the shocking decision to bench quarterback Kirk Cousins ​​and replace him with rookie Michael Penix Jr., who will make his first career start on Sunday against the New York Giants.

“After review, we have made the decision that Michael Penix will be the starting quarterback of the Atlanta Falcons,” said Falcons head coach Raheem Morris. “This was a football decision and we are fully focused on preparing the team for Sunday’s game against the New York Giants.”

This is the second time the Falcons have stunned the football world with Penix Jr.

Atlanta signed Cousins ​​to a four-year, $180 million contract in free agency before selecting Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, surprising many.

The Giants, desperately trying to trade for a top quarterback but failing, passed on Penix Jr. at No. 6 overall and selected LSU wide receiver Malik Nabers instead.

Now they can see firsthand what could have been.

Penix Jr. revived his college career at Washington, throwing for 9,544 yards, 67 touchdowns and 19 interceptions in two seasons. He was a two-time second-team All-Pac-12 selection, was the 2022 AP Comeback Player of the Year and a 2023 first-team All-American. He also won the Maxwell Award last year.

Penix Jr. appeared in just two games for the Falcons this season, completing three of his five passes for 38 yards.