Last year, the Atlanta Falcons were scheduled for four primetime games. The team had star power, a deep running back and wide receiver room, along with a veteran quarterback in Kirk Cousins, who appeared to be in a position where his time for a deep run was now.
Later in the year, after Cousins was benched in favor of Michael Penix Jr., the team was granted a fifth primetime game against the Washington Commanders, who would also feature an outstanding young QB. The national intrigue to start the season was validated, but quickly lost its momentum.
Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. throws a pass in the 3rd quarter against the Carolina Panthers.
Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. throws a pass in the 3rd quarter against the Carolina Panthers.
Atlanta finished 8-9 in 2024 and missed the playoffs for the seventh consecutive season, yet the NFL surprisingly committed to giving the Falcons time in the national spotlight. Once again, for the 2025 season, the NFL has allowed Atlanta to be featured five times under the spotlight, offering a glimpse of what Atlanta could become with Penix Jr. at quarterback.
In 2025, Atlanta will play five primetime games. They face the Minnesota Vikings in Week 2 and the Buffalo Bills in Week 6. The San Francisco 49ers on Sunday Night Football in Week 7. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday Night Football during Week 15. Finally, they will face the Los Angeles Rams during Week 17 on Monday Night Football.
NFL Insider Adam Schefter would say, "The National Football League is saying, 'Bring on Michael Penix and what he could do, and if you remember the prime-time game they played last year to end the season against the Washington Commanders right near the end."
Atlanta is expected to take a step forward in 2025, thanks to the team's efforts through the NFL Draft and the offseason. Four of the five opponents for the Falcons made the playoffs last year, so it will be a great test moving forward.