FLOWERY BRANCH — The Falcons were aware of quarterback Michael Penix Jr.’s injury history.

Here’s what general manager Terry Fontenot had to say about Penix’s medical examinations during the predraft process.

“That’s all part of it. We looked at all the history,” Fontenot said. “Again, our trainers and doctors, we spent a lot of time with them going through that process. And it does mean a lot that he’s played well these last two years. Obviously, it’s something we’re always forward-thinking on in terms of doing everything we can to prevent injuries, but we felt good about it.”

Penix injury history

He redshirted at Indiana in 2018 after playing in three games. He tore the ACL in his right knee.

In 2019, he started six games for the Hoosiers. He missed the rest of the year with an injury to his right shoulder (nonthrowing).

In 2020, he was second-team All-Big Ten but tore his ACL in his right knee vs. Maryland in November and missed the rest of the season.

In 2021, he played five games and completed 87 of 162 passes (53.7%) for 939 yards, four touchdowns and seven interceptions. Missed the end of the season after separating the left (throwing) shoulder.

In 2025, he suffered a partially torn ACL on Sunday. He had a bone bruise PCL injury, which was aggravated.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. suffered a left knee injury in Sunday’s loss at Mercedes-Benz Stadium to the Carolina Panthers, according to a report Monday by ESPN.  (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez

Featured

Lt. Gov. Burt Jones — pictured at an August rally in Peachtree City that also featured Vice President JD Vance — appears to have scored another legal victory over gubernatorial rival Attorney General Chris Carr in their battle over campaign finance issues. (Arvin Temkar/AJC 2025)

Credit: Arvin Temkar / AJC