When Atlanta drafted Michael Penix Jr. just weeks after signing Kirk Cousins to a massive franchise-cornerstone deal, the disbelief and derision rained down from all corners of the NFL world — fans, media,

With the game on the line, Penix stood tall. It didn’t lead to a win, but it’s a source of hope for the Falcons.

Even in defeat, one positive takeaway for the Atlanta Falcons in their Sunday Night Football loss to the Washington Commanders was Michael Penix Jr.'s willingness to get tight end Kyle Pitts involved in the passing game.