Morris: No QB controversy between Cousins, Penix

Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris addressed the stunning selection of quarterback Michael Penix Jr. on Saturday, saying the pick shouldn't create a controversy under center for four-time Pro Bowler Kirk Cousins.

"We came up with a decision, this is what we plan to do," Morris said of Atlanta using the eighth overall pick on Penix despite having signed Cousins to a four-year, $180-million contract in free agency, according to ESPN's Marc Raimondi. "Kirk does not have to look over his shoulder every time he throws a bad pass. That is not the case.

"I know I'm going to have to tell you guys once or twice that that is not the case. Like, we are here to go win, and we are here to go win it all. We are here to win as much as we can win."

The Falcons picking Penix in the top 10 was the most surprising decision of this year's draft. Cousins was reportedly shocked by Atlanta's choice, but the veteran passer reached out to Penix afterward. The rookie passer said the two had "a very good conversation."

"I hate for it to be like the story of the draft," said Morris, who joined the Falcons this year. "I know it will be. That's just how our world is based and is driven, but I can't say it's annoying. No. Because it's what people want to see, it's piqued more interest. What's (Travis) Kelce's girlfriend's name? I feel like her right now. I'm Taylor Swift, and (general manager) Terry (Fontenot) is Kelce, I guess."

Penix put on a show during his final two college seasons at Washington and was considered the fourth- or fifth-best quarterback prospect in 2024.

Cousins spent the last six seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, averaging 4,494 yards and 33 touchdowns with a 67.9% completion rate per 17 games played. The 35-year-old, who was the top free-agent QB this offseason, suffered an Achilles injury midway through the 2023 season but is expected to be available for the Falcons in Week 1.