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Falcons Ripped by Fans for Sitting Michael Penix Jr. in Preseason Game vs. Ravens

Peter Joneleit/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Atlanta Falcons made the surprising decision to have rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. sit out Saturday's preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens, resulting in largely negative reactions from fans on social media.

With veteran starting quarterback Kirk Cousins not playing, it was widely expected that Penix would receive significant playing time, but Kelly Price of Fox 5 Sports in Atlanta shared a photo of Penix in street clothes rather than his uniform:

There was excitement surrounding the game due to the belief that Penix would play at least a half of football, but with the rookie not dressing for the contest, many fans took to X to express dismay and confusion:

The Falcons have mystified most observers with the handling of their quarterback situation this offseason, and sitting Penix on Saturday is just another example.