NW Atlanta News

The Atlanta Falcons are looking forward to a promising future despite missing the playoffs this season. The team sees potential in its young talents, Drake London, Bijan Robinson, and Michael Penix Jr., who made NFL history during their season finale against the Carolina Panthers. This trio became the first in league history to record a 300-yard passer, a 175-yard receiver, and a 150-yard rusher in one game, all under the age of 25.

Falcons defensive tackle and team captain Grady Jarrett praised the trio's potential: "These guys are superstars. They're not good players — they're superstars in the making," he stated. "Excited to see them continue to grow and continue to blossom."

Head coach Raheem Morris referred to these last three No. 8 overall picks as the Falcons' "big three." London was drafted first in 2022 and emerged as a top wide receiver by his third season with 1,271 receiving yards and nine touchdowns.

Robinson joined the team in 2023 and quickly made an impact with impressive stats including fourth in yards from scrimmage (1,887) and third in rushing yards (1,456). Penix was drafted in 2024 as the team's future quarterback but proved ready sooner than expected. He averaged 245.7 passing yards over three starts.

London expressed excitement about his connection with Penix: "It's gonna be special, man," he said. Robinson also received praise from Penix: "I told Bijan yesterday I was like, 'Man, some of the stuff you do is crazy,'" he commented.

Penix demonstrated maturity and skill throughout his games. Despite going 1-2 in must-win scenarios, he showed poise under pressure with crucial game-tying drives.

Coach Morris noted Penix's ability to handle high-pressure situations: "That's where he's different," Morris explained. He praised Penix's understanding of situational football.

The Falcons aim to build on this potential for next season. As London remarked, "[In the] offseason, we've got to get after it and get right because we want to get into the postseason."