Can Michael Penix Jr. lead the Falcons to the playoffs?

Yes, the Falcons are hoping that second-year quarterback Michael Penix Jr. can throw 20 or more touchdown passes, which would be the first time a Falcons QB has done so since Matt Ryan.

How will the Falcons' new rookie pass rushers impact the team?

The Falcons used their top two draft picks and next year's first-rounder to acquire rookie pass rushers Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr., who the team hopes can spark the defense and improve a unit that gave up 30-plus points in five losses last season.

Will the Falcons finally end their playoff drought in 2025?

The Falcons are determined to break their postseason drought, which has lasted for seven consecutive seasons. If they fail to make the playoffs again in 2025, the future of the team's head coach and general manager could be in jeopardy.

Home / Sports / Falcons Aim to End Playoff Drought with Rookie Pass Rushers and Penix Jr.

Falcons Aim to End Playoff Drought with Rookie Pass Rushers and Penix Jr.

4 Aug

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Summary

Falcons posted 8-9 record in 2024, missed playoffs
Rookie pass rushers Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. drafted to spark defense
QB Michael Penix Jr. looks to throw 20+ TDs, first Falcons QB to do so since Matt Ryan

Falcons Aim to End Playoff Drought with Rookie Pass Rushers and Penix Jr.

As the 2025 NFL preseason approaches, the Atlanta Falcons are focused on breaking their postseason drought. Last season, the team posted an 8-9 record, falling short of a playoff spot. However, the Falcons are optimistic about their chances in 2025, with much hinging on the performance of second-year quarterback Michael Penix Jr.

Penix Jr. is looking to become the first Falcons QB to throw 20 or more touchdown passes since Matt Ryan, who accomplished the feat for 13 straight seasons from 2009 to 2021. The Falcons also used their top two draft picks, as well as next year's first-rounder, to acquire a pair of promising rookie pass rushers in Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. The team hopes these young defensive talents can spark a unit that gave up 30 or more points in five losses last season.

Despite sweeping the division-rival Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2024, the Falcons faded in the second half of the year, allowing the Bucs to win the NFC South by two games. If Atlanta fails to make the playoffs for an eighth consecutive season, the future of the team's head coach and general manager could be in jeopardy.

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