Green Bay Packers receive strong Michael Penix Jr. prediction ahead of Falcons clash

The Green Bay Packers have plenty to sort out after the first two weeks of the 2026 campaign. The Packers split their opening games and now hold a 1-1 record following their overtime victory over the New York Jets . Their next matchup comes on a short turnaround against an Atlanta Falcons team that has struggled early, but another storyline is drawing attention as questions continue to surround Green Bay 's starting quarterback.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler provided insight into how the Packers and other teams around the league are viewing the Falcons with Michael Penix Jr. back in the lineup.

Micheal Penix Jr. returns against the Green Bay Packers

"Rival teams that have studied them believe that the return of Michael Penix should settle down the offense a bit," wrote the NFL insider.

"One Packers player I spoke to anticipates Atlanta gets Penix acclimated with some easy completions and by leaning on the running game with Bijan Robinson ."

Atlanta named Penix Jr. its starting quarterback on Monday after he completed his recovery from the ACL injury he suffered last season. The Falcons have struggled to generate much offensively, including difficulty establishing Robinson as a consistent part of the rushing attack. Penix showed encouraging signs during his nine appearances in 2025, throwing for 1,982 yards with nine touchdowns and three interceptions. Atlanta now expects the 26 year old to provide more consistency while giving the offense greater potential.

Green Bay will get a close look at how Atlanta responds with Penix back in the lineup, especially with the Packers coming off a short week. The Falcons and Packers will meet at Lambeau Field on Sept. 24 at 8:15 p.m. ET.

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