Drake London Calls Michael Penix Jr. 'Definition of Resiliency' After Falcons' Upset of Packers

Michael Penix Jr. received high praise from Drake London after leading the Atlanta Falcons to an impressive 35-14 win over the Green Bay Packers for their first victory of the season.

London told reporters after the game that Penix is the "definition of resiliency" as the third-year quarterback worked his way back from a torn ACL in his left knee.

Making his first start since Week 11 of the 2025 season, Penix had some rust coming out of the gate with an interception that ended Atlanta's first offensive possession.

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Penix settled in after that to finish 18-of-25 for 256 yards with one touchdown and one interception. He helped the Falcons record season-highs in points, passing yards and total yards (498).

Even though there was no real question that Penix would return after injuring his knee last season, concerns about his viability only grew since it was the third time has torn his ACL.

The previous two times occurred in college and were to the ACL in his right knee, but there isn't a long history of NFL players returning and having success after having at least three ACL tears.

Former Carolina Panthers linebacker Thomas Davis Sr. is the most famous example of being able to do it. He tore the same ACL in three consecutive seasons from 2009 to '11 before returning to play nine additional seasons from 2012 to '20.

Penix's health and success is a huge storyline for the Falcons in 2026. He was a first-round pick two years ago and will become eligible for a contract extension after this season.

If Penix performs well, it will remove a huge question for Atlanta's front office to answer in the offseason as it looks to build up the roster.

There is a long way to go before getting to that point. Penix and the Falcons are currently focused on trying to play their way back into contention in what looks like a wide-open NFC South.

Next week is a marquee divisional showdown for the Falcons against the New Orleans Saints at the Caesars Superdome on Monday Night Football.