Injuries have been a huge problem for many teams during the 2025 NFL season. The Minnesota Vikings aren't the only team dealing with important players missing time, forcing backups into the starting lineup.
For the Atlanta Falcons, starting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is dealing with a bone bruise to his knee. That injury is expected to sideline the second-year passer, paving the way for his backup to get the start in Week 8.
Behind Penix on the depth chart, the Falcons have former Vikings QB Kirk Cousins as the primary backup. The team also has Easton Stick on the practice squad and could elevate him to the 53-man roster for Sunday's game.