Transitioning from Backup to Leader
Having spent last offseason learning as a rookie behind Cousins, Penix now enters as the clear QB1. According to Falcons head coach Raheem Morris, he’s beginning to establish himself as a leader early in the year.
“When you take over that quarterback spot, there’s a certain humility about playing the position,” Morris said on Tuesday, via The Associated Press. “Then, it (comes) a certain confidence about playing the position. Eventually, it turns into a little bit of an arrogance about playing the position where it’s non-negotiable. We’re not there yet.”
“I don’t think we will be for a little bit, but I think he’s at the mode of where he’s starting to get that confidence to be able to figure out how to get to that point.”
Earning His Spot in Year Two
After spending most of his rookie campaign on the bench, Penix got his chance when the team decided to sit the struggling veteran. That decision opened the door for him to lead in his second year. The 25-year-old is ready to embrace the responsibility.
“The one that I want to point (to) is just connecting with the guys,” Penix said. “I feel like I’ve done a lot better with connecting with everybody around the team. Not just offensive guys but defensive guys as well. Whether that’s just around the facility eating lunch or going out and playing golf with some of them. Don’t ask about my golf game.”
Learning from Matt Ryan
Taking over as starting quarterback brings its own pressures, both on and off the field. Penix recently turned to a trusted source for guidance, former Falcons star Matt Ryan. “I spoke to Matt Ryan and had a good conversation with him (about) learning how to be a pro each and every day and how his process went,” Penix said.
“I feel like he definitely gave me some good things. Obviously he knows this is my second year coming into it (and) this is my first year starting. He talked to me about his times during that time and how he got to where he ended up.”
The Real Test Awaits
Although Penix showed promise late last season, starting from Week 1 on a team determined to end a seven-year playoff drought presents a different kind of challenge. His response if adversity hits early on will reveal a lot about his ability to lead.
