The Atlanta Falcons were unsure who they would face in Sunday night's matchup with the San Francisco 49ers, but that question has been answered.

Kirk Cousins is still playing for the Atlanta Falcons, but he is in a backup role for the 2025 NFL season. Here's why.

Why Falcons have $180 million Kirk Cousins as backup QB behind Michael Penix Jr. originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here. The Atlanta Falcons have, by far, the most expensive backup quarterback in football.

Mac Jones is likely to feature again at quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers in Week 7. Everything points in that direction, as head coach Kyle Shanahan stated that both Mac Jones and Brock Purdy are healthier. However, Purdy's turf toe injury could worsen, potentially affecting him in a similar way to his previous start.

That said, Kyle Shanahan’s troops have lost two of their last three following Sunday’s 30-19 loss at Tampa Bay. In that loss against the Buccaneers, San Francisco allowed a season-high 30 points as their struggles defensively were accentuated after losing Warner to injury in the 1st quarter.

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. played like a seasoned veteran in the team's Monday Night Football win over the Buffalo Bills. And to think, fans were calling for reserve quarterback Kirk Cousins to replace Penix just a few weeks ago. Thankfully, Falcons head coach Raheem Morris was wise enough not to listen to the critics.

ESPN NFL analyst Dan Orlovsky gives insight on QB Michael Penix Jr. ahead of Bills vs. Falcons in Week 6 on 'Monday Night Football.'

After beating the Buffalo Bills in prime time in Week 6, QB Michael Penix Jr. said that the Atlanta Falcons are "legit."

The Atlanta Falcons know they have a special player in Bijan Robinson, but Monday night's win over the Buffalo Bills gave fans around the country a chance to see the league's most productive running back in action.

Bills quarterback Josh Allen was pressured consistently by the Falcons. New stats show how uncomfortable Allen was throughout the game.