Falcons OTA Winners & Losers: The Rise of Penix, Rookie Heat, and the Pitts Problem
Alright Falcons fans, OTA season is officially heating up, and let’s just say… there’s already plenty of noise coming out of Flowery Branch. From breakout performances to trade whispers, this offseason is anything but quiet.
So let’s break it down: Who’s winning big? Who’s falling behind? And what should fans read between the lines? Buckle up — here are the biggest winners and losers (so far) from Falcons OTAs:
🏆 BIGGEST WINNER: Michael Penix Jr. — The Future is NOW
Let’s start with the obvious. The rookie QB, the talk of the offseason, the man catching everyone’s attention — Michael Penix Jr. is on fire.
Not only is Penix impressing with his accuracy and arm talent, but what’s really standing out? His confidence and leadership. Head coach Raheem Morris isn’t hiding it either — he’s praised Penix for how he’s leading the offense already, even calling him “super confident.”
But here’s the kicker: Penix is running with the 1s. He’s throwing to Drake London, Bijan Robinson, and Darnell Mooney. Remember last year when Mooney said he hadn’t even caught a pass from him? That’s in the past now.
This is how chemistry gets built. This is how stars are made. Penix is getting the early reps, the early attention — and so far? He’s delivering.
❌ BIGGEST LOSER: Kyle Pitts — Where Are You, 8?
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room.
Kyle Pitts is MIA — not because he’s not with the team, but because he’s not on the field. The Falcons are being “cautious” with him, according to Raheem Morris. But here’s the thing — Morris declined to speak on the foot injury. That’s a red flag.
Translation? This feels more like a “don’t risk the trade value” situation than a “he’s just banged up” one.
There are real trade rumors swirling around Pitts, and if the Falcons are holding him out to preserve his value… well, then Pitts might have already played his last snap in Atlanta.
A former top-5 pick. A player with elite potential. And yet, no role in the new-look offense? That’s a major fall — and a major storyline to watch.
🏆 WINNER: The Rookies — Walker, Bowman, Pierce & Co.
You love to see it.
The Falcons’ 2025 rookie class is already making noise. Whether it’s Jaylen Walker getting first-team reps or Billy Bowman impressing with speed and IQ, this group isn’t waiting around — they’re coming in hungry.
Even James Pearce Jr., who hasn’t been with the ones as much in front of media, is getting the slow ramp-up treatment. Raheem Morris has made it clear: they’re just being smart. They know what they’ve got. And when he’s unleashed? Watch out.
This defensive staff seems to have a plan — and they’re executing it well.
❌ LOSER: Troy Andersen — Time Is Ticking
This one’s flying under the radar… but maybe not for long.
Linebacker Troy Andersen might be in trouble. Why? Because newcomer Divine Deablo is cooking at OTAs.
Explosive. Fast. Physical. Some are describing Deablo as a “giant running full speed,” and that’s exactly what Atlanta wanted Andersen to be.
If Andersen can’t bounce back from injury and outperform Deablo, his time in Atlanta might be limited. It’s possible the Falcons could shop him before the trade deadline if things don’t turn around.
Final Thoughts
The Falcons have momentum. You can feel it. Whether it’s Penix emerging as the future, the rookies making waves, or strategic moves on the horizon — this team is shaping up to be dangerous.
But there’s also drama brewing. The Pitts situation? The linebacker competition? It’s all part of the storyline heading into the season.
So now it’s your turn — Who are YOU most excited to watch this year?
Drop a comment below 👇 and let us know. For me? It’s Jaylen Walker, easy. But you already knew that.
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Rise Up, Atlanta. The future is now. 🏈
