Cousins has shown nothing but respect to Penix ever since being benched, whether it was handing him compliments or praying with him before a game. Penix opened up more about Cousins's influence on him and shared his gratitude for how the veteran has treated him in this odd circumstance.

Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. will make the first start of his professional career Sunday following Atlanta’s momentous (but obvious) decision to bench veteran Kirk Cousins in favor of the rookie passer.