Michael Penix Jr. is already winning the fans over with his presser game and maybe the trust of a star teammate too.
Before taking any questions at his first NFL training camp press conference, the Atlanta Falcons rookie quarterback stepped to the mic with a message:
“See we got KP the ball? Gonna be a lot of that.”
In one viral moment later, the NFL world got the message loud and clear, Kyle Pitts is very much part of the gameplan this season in Atlanta and Penix wants everyone to know it.
After the Kirk Cousins experiment didnt work Penix is now the clear starter this year. After being the Falcons' first-round pick last April he’s doing the little things to win over fans and colleagues alike.
That includes building early chemistry with former No. 4 overall pick Kyle Pitts, who is coming off a bounce-back year and is finally fully healthy.
Pitts was involved early and often in practice, should be welcome sign for Falcons fans who’ve spent the last few seasons wondering when their athletic tight end would be used to his full potential.
Pitts has long been one of the NFL’s biggest mismatches. At 6-6 with elite speed and leaping ability, he’s a nightmare for linebackers and safeties. But under former head coach Arthur Smith, Pitts’ role often felt inconsistent and his role was influx as a result.
In 2024, he posted 602 yards and 4 touchdowns far from what many expected from a generational tight end prospect.
With the Falcons now extended his rookie contract this offseason this seems to be a prove it year for Pitts and the offense to see what they can get from here this season.
With a new face under center Pitts may finally be unleashed. And it seems like Penix is making sure of that.
Penix decision to highlight Pitts unprompted shows a growing maturity and awareness of the locker room dynamics. He’s backing his teammates, embracing the moment, and sending a message that he understands where the ball should go.
Whether it’s this year or down the road, the Penix-to-Pitts connection is one Falcons fans should be excited about.
And if Penix’s first press conference is any indication, they’re just getting started.