Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (9) looks on during warm up prior to the during the first half against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field.
Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
Michael Penix Jr. did not waste time announcing his return from his ACL injury, as he led the Atlanta Falcons past the Green Bay Packers, 35-14, at Lambeau Field on Thursday.
Penix and the Falcons gatecrashed the season opener of the Packers, who were mired anew in an offensive rut. Penix went 18-of-25 for 256 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
Atlanta started 0-2 with Cooper Rush and Jack Strand filling in for Penix. Tua Tagovailoa, who was supposed to be the starter while Penix was sidelined, suffered an oblique injury before Week 1.
The 26-year-old Penix was a bit emotional in the postgame interview.
“I got two words: But God,” said the young quarterback.
“I'm just so thankful, so blessed to be back in this position. I've been fighting and scratching for a long time to get to where I'm at today.”
"Such a blessing to have somebody like that on your team."
Falcons QB1 Michael Penix Jr. with HIGH praise for teammate Bijan Robinson after Atlanta’s W 🗣️
(via @NFLonPrime) pic.twitter.com/LOtlOkED3E
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) September 25, 2026
Penix did not forget to thank his support system during his rehabilitation. The process was arduous, but he made it through.
“I'm so thankful for the trainers who helped me. I'm thankful for my family supporting me, my wife supporting me, my teammates supporting me, being there for me each and every day. It's just a blessing to be able to come out here and finish this game healthy. What a win,” added Penix.
He achieved a milestone against the Packers, passing for 3,000 yards in fewer games than any other quarterback in team history.
The Falcons will battle the New Orleans Saints in Week 4.