Stefanski anticipates Penix starting Sunday vs. Bears

Sets up 1st vs 8th picks of 2024 draft

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 1h1 min read

Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski says he anticipates Michael Penix Jr. playing Sunday against the Bears, barring any setbac Via @AlbertBreer on X

What happened: Atlanta Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski said Michael Penix Jr. is expected to play Sunday against Chicago barring setbacks. Caleb Williams is also working back, lining up a meeting of 2024 first-round classmates.

Why it matters: Penix was the 8th overall pick in 2024 out of Washington, while Williams went 1st overall out of USC. A meeting in the 2026 regular season gives an early comparison point for the Falcons and Bears at quarterback.

By the numbers: In 2025, Williams completed 330 of 568 passes for 3,942 yards with 27 touchdowns and 7 interceptions in 17 games for Chicago. Penix completed 166 of 276 passes for 1,982 yards with 9 touchdowns and 3 interceptions in 9 games for Atlanta.

What to watch: Penix must get through the practice week without setbacks. Final status clarifies closer to Sunday.

Sources

@AlbertBreer 2026-10-14T17:02:21.052966+00:00

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NFLInjuryAtlanta FalconsChicago BearsCaleb WilliamsMichael Penix Jr.

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