Oct 19, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (9) runs with the ball during the first quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

The Atlanta Falcons will likely be without quarterback Michael Penix Jr. on Sunday as the team faces the Miami Dolphins at home.

ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter reported on Saturday that veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins is "highly likely" to start for Atlanta against Miami as Penix heals from a bone bruise to his knee sustained during last Sunday's loss against the San Francisco 49ers.

Cousins hasn't started for the Falcons since December last year when he was benched in favor of Penix over his performance. Penix has played decently for Atlanta this season but has struggled on the road, where the team is 1-2 compared to its 2-1 home record.

Now, Cousins should have a chance to prove to the rest of the league that he can still play, with the Nov. 4 trade deadline looming for teams needing a quarterback. A 2026 fit for Cousins could also emerge.

With Penix flashing strong play in moments this season, his first full state as a starter, the Falcons are highly unlikely to turn back to Cousins for a full-time role, even if he plays well against the Dolphins. However, Atlanta will need Cousins to match some of his best 2024 efforts with the team to avoid falling to 3-4 on the season.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Will Michael Penix Jr. play for the Falcons in Week 8?

Reporting by Cory Woodroof, For The Win / For The Win

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