Hope is rarely higher for a team than at this time on the calendar, but McCloud’s optimism needs to be somewhat softened when it is stacked up against the statistics.
Penix showed a promise when he took the lead from Kirk Cousins to end the 2024 campaign, but the first player has still started only three games and went 1-2 in them. These were the last three competitions in the 8-9 season, the seventh right in a row with a losing record. It also extended the dryness of Atlanta by season, as the Falcons have not reached the finals since 2017.
The period before the Falcons went to the Super Bowl.
To think that they could return in 2025 is certainly lofty hope, but McCloud clearly enjoys what he has seen from Penix, not to mention his surrounding role by running back Bijan Robinson, soon the receiver Drake London and Darnell Mooney, the tight end of Kyle Pitts and one
Penix, no. 8 Overall selected on the ’25 draft, spent his time behind cousins for the longest time last year before he was called for action. His 775 meters, three matches and three interceptions in five games are hardly a jaw, but his long left arm and chests have strengthened the club.
The last season was also huge for McCloud, with 62 reception and 686 meters each.
Thus, he is seeing another big period for himself, Penix and the Falcons.