Falcons Ripped by Fans for Sitting Michael Penix Jr. in Preseason Game vs. Ravens

The Atlanta Falcons made the surprising decision to have rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. sit out Saturday's preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens, resulting in largely negative reactions from fans on social media.

With veteran starting quarterback Kirk Cousins sitting out, it was widely expected that Penix would receive significant playing time. That wasn't the case, and the absence wasn't injury related, according to head coach Raheem Morris:

There was excitement surrounding the game due to the belief that Penix would play at least a half of football, but with the rookie not dressing for the contest, many fans took to X to express dismay and confusion:

The Falcons have mystified most observers with the handling of their quarterback situation this offseason, and sitting Penix on Saturday is just another example.

Atlanta made a huge commitment to Cousins in free agency, signing him to a four-year, $180 million contract in free agency despite the fact that he is 35 years old and coming off a torn Achilles.

Then, rather than using the pick on a position of immediate need, the Falcons selected Penix at No. 8 overall.

Penix had a spectacular college career that concluded with him bringing Washington all the way to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game last season, but if Cousins remains healthy and productive throughout his contract, it is possible Penix could sit on the bench for upward of three years.

Given that potential scenario, the preseason represents the ideal opportunity for Penix to get some quality reps in, and he did precisely that in Atlanta's preseason opener against the Miami Dolphins.

Penix looked comfortable and played efficiently in his first NFL game action, going 9-of-16 for 104 yards.

Rather than building on that performance, Atlanta will keep him on the sidelines Saturday against the Ravens, meaning veteran Taylor Heinicke and undrafted rookie John Paddock will lead the way under center.