Matt Ryan Urges Patience as Falcons Develop Michael Penix Jr.
Matt Ryan addressed Michael Penix Jr.’s recovery and development, emphasizing health and coaching stability heading into the 2026 season.
Atlanta Falcons President Matt Ryan knows what franchise quarterback development looks like, and he’s preaching patience with Michael Penix Jr.
The former Falcons QB1 addressed Penix’s recovery from a torn ACL and long-term outlook this week, emphasizing that health is the priority heading into the 2026 offseason.
“I have had the opportunity to sit with Michael, and number one, how do we bring him along? You get healthy first,” Ryan said. “The first thing you’ve got to do is get yourself in a place where we can practice and do that. So, job number one for Michael is to keep doing exactly what he’s doing. He’s been in our building doing his rehab. He’s in a good place right now. . . . Everybody’s like, ‘When is he going to be back?’ Well, you don’t know. There’s ups and downs that come with that rehab space, but we feel like we’re on track and in a good space with Michael right now.”
That’s the right tone.
Penix’s 2025 season was limited due to injury, preventing him from stacking meaningful NFL reps. For a young quarterback still transitioning to the pro game, that matters. The Falcons remain in evaluation mode with Penix, and his availability this offseason will shape everything.
Penix ended the 2025 season throwing for 1,982 yards, nine touchdowns, and three interceptions. He was 3-6 as a starter.
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Ryan also stressed the importance of infrastructure around a developing passer.
“How do you help him improve? Number one, it starts with surrounding him with really solid coaches,” Ryan said. “I’m excited about Alex Van Pelt coming in. He’s a good football coach. Coming in, you talk about the wealth of experience that he has for a young player like Michael. I think that’s really good. . . . Michael does a great job. He can spin the football. We’re excited about what he does, and we’re excited about the staff we’re putting around him.”
That coaching stability will be key in 2026.
Penix has always had arm talent. He has the ability to drive throws and attack windows downfield. But development isn’t linear, especially after injuries.
Atlanta doesn’t need Michael Penix to be an MVP in 2026. They just need him to be a consistent starting quarterback.
And that starts with getting fully healthy.
