When Kyle Pitts caught the game-tying touchdown pass against the Washington Commanders on Sunday night, he got swept up in the emotion of the moment and launched the ball into the air. What Pitts didn't realize at the time was he'd just thrown away Michael Penix Jr.

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins has been a quality backup to rookie Michael Penix Jr., said head coach Raheem Morris.

Penix, the former Washington Huskies QB, led the Falcons to an easy win over the New York Giants before suffering a 30-24 overtime loss to the Washington Commanders in Week 17. Despite the loss, Penix impressed those around the NFL with his poise in the face of adversity.

With the game on the line, Penix stood tall. It didn’t lead to a win, but it’s a source of hope for the Falcons.

Falcons rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. announced his engagement to girlfriend Olivia Carter on Saturday, just days after making his first NFL start on Dec. 22.

Even in their loss to the Commanders, the Falcons look to have made the right call between Kirk Cousins and Michael Penix Jr.

When Atlanta drafted Michael Penix Jr. just weeks after signing Kirk Cousins to a massive franchise-cornerstone deal, the disbelief and derision rained down from all corners of the NFL world — fans, media,

WATCH: Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. throws first career TD to Kyle Pitts on 4th and goal to tie the game against the Commanders

Penix finished 18-for-27 for 202 yards, no touchdowns and a deflected interception. Two pick sixes by the defense helped a lot.

Penix, 24, announced his engagement to his girlfriend, now fiancée, Olivia Carter, over the weekend. In a joint post on Instagram, the couple shared proposal photos.