As difficult as it is to trust an Atlanta Falcons organization that willingly signed up for seasons of Desmond Ridder, it is impossible not to get excited about Michael Penix Jr. In only three games, the quarterback has excited the fan base to a level we haven't seen since the 2016 season. There is hope that the position will have stability, which it has lacked since Matt Ryan's forced exit after the 2021 season. With this in mind, there is no shortage of former players weighing in on Penix's ability and fit with the franchise.
Unsurprisingly, among this list is former star quarterback Michael Vick. When asked about Penix, the former Falcon said that he was "excited for Mike." Vick further expounded that he believed it was going "to be an amazing season for him." The quarterback was clearly supportive, appearing to believe fully in Penix's ability to push the franchise back into relevance.
Former Falcons Quarterback Michael Vick Praised the Potential of Penix Jr.
While Vick's legacy in Atlanta is complicated, the quarterback remains an incredibly important piece of franchise history. The electric ability of the quarterback to create explosive plays will never be forgotten by the Falcons fan base, no matter how things might have ended. The work that Vick has done off the field since his Atlanta departure has allowed the quarterback to be remembered a bit more fondly and become a respected voice within sports media.
Making the quarterback's endorsement of Penix carry a bit more weight as fans continue to find reasons for excitement. It is easy to pinpoint a handful of the quarterback's throws in his three starts as evidence that the starter can make any NFL throw. Add in the surprising touch on the intermediate that Penix appeared to lack at times at the college level, and there simply isn't a clear weakness in the starter's game.
Vick points out as well the treasure trove of weapons the Falcons have handed the young quarterback. It is far easier to be great when you have Drake London, Darnell Mooney, and Bijan Robinson as your primary weapons. Add in the punishing runs that Tyler Allgeier brings, and this is as complete of an offense as the team could reasonably hope to build. No question, Vick's words echo the sentiments of Atlanta fans who cannot wait for the 2025 season with the belief that they finally have a quarterback who will establish himself among the league's elite.