When Kyle Pitts caught the game-tying touchdown pass against the Washington Commanders on Sunday night, he got swept up in the emotion of the moment and launched the ball into the air. What Pitts didn't realize at the time was he'd just thrown away Michael Penix Jr.

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins has been a quality backup to rookie Michael Penix Jr., said head coach Raheem Morris.

Penix, the former Washington Huskies QB, led the Falcons to an easy win over the New York Giants before suffering a 30-24 overtime loss to the Washington Commanders in Week 17. Despite the loss, Penix impressed those around the NFL with his poise in the face of adversity.