Podcast appearances and mentions of Michael Penix Jr

On this episode of 2 Pros & A Cup Of Joe, Jonas Knox, Brady Quinn, & LaVar Arrington ponder the QB competition between Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr and what to make of the Falcons. Plus, the guys discuss why Troy Aikman is calling training camp now is softer for players which leads to injuries, recap the layout of the tournament bracket, and much more!!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Hour 2 of the show, Jonas Knox, Brady Quinn, & LaVar Arrington ponder the QB competition between Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr and what to make of the Falcons. Plus, the guys discuss why Troy Aikman is calling training camp now is softer for players which leads to injuries, a rat edition of the FSR I.R, and more!!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TJ Houshmandzadeh & Plaxico Burress talk about the Ravens rescinding their trade for Maxx Crosby and how it's perceived around the league, Kyler Murray joining the Minnesota Vikings and what it means for current starter JJ McCarthy, what Tua Tagovailoa signing with the Falcons means for Michael Penix Jr, and more! #fsrweekendsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jason Smith and Mike Harmon kick off Hour 4 with another NFL quarterback derby in Atlanta, as the Falcons weigh their options between Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. for the starting job. Then, the guys turn their attention back to the World Baseball Classic, previewing Team USA’s upcoming matchup and discussing Clayton Kershaw’s career as he makes what could be his final run in the WBC. All that and more in Hour 4 of The Jason Smith Show with Mike Harmon!

In hour 2 of The Drive, Zach and Phil use our local Denver sports athletes to compare them to this weekend's Academy Awards. Who is the best lead male performance (best overall athlete) in Denver? Who is the best supporting actor (best sidekick)? Which team has the best director (coach)? What athlete would have the best documentary? Today's "Three Count" features a reflection on how thankful we should be to have Bo Nix in Denver while JJ McCarthy and Michael Penix Jr. are both in quarterback competitions for their teams, the Broncos bringing back Jaleel McLaughlin on a 1-year contract, and stories from the guys on their St. Patrick's Day celebrations from when they were younger. Our 9News Broncos insider Mike Klis joins the show to discuss the Broncos lack of aggression going outside of the organization to sign free agents, if the Broncos has a splashy trade up their sleeve, and much more. 

Andy and Randy get in to comments made by Falcons GM Ian Cunningham regarding a quarterback competition between Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr.

Carl and Mike get into some Falcons talk as they share thoughts on Ian Cunningham stating he and Kevin Stefanski wanted to ensure Michael Penix Jr. did not feel blindsided so they informed him of their intentions of bringing in Tua Tagovailoa and their would be a competition for QB1, which Carl believes is a good situation for Penix Jr. to 'go out and prove it' in regards to being the team's starting QB

Carl and Mike get back into Falcons talk as they share more thoughts on the idea of the team bringing in Tua Tagovailoa and creating a competition for the starting quarterback position, agreeing Tua was the better option in regards to bringing someone in to push Michael Penix Jr.

3 O'clock Hour :00 – Carl and Mike get back into Falcons talk as they share more thoughts on the idea of the team bringing in Tua Tagovailoa and creating a competition for the starting quarterback position, agreeing Tua was the better option in regards to bringing someone in to push Michael Penix Jr. :20 – Carl and Mike are joined by Bryant McFadden as they discuss the last NFL headlines and the Falcons front office saying Tua Tagovailoa has been brought in to compete for the starting role. :40 – Carl and Mike get into what's on DA-DA's mind as they discuss GHSA basketball state championships, talent like Kate Harpring leaving the state of Georgia, Dabo Swinney shouldering blame for Clemson shortcomings in 2026 and Erik Spoelstra saying he's not apologizing for Bam Adebayo's 83-point night.

The Falcons have a new quarterback situation in Atlanta, and Buck Belue dives into what it means for the 2026 season. With the Falcons moving on from Kirk Cousins and signing Tua Tagovailoa to a one-year prove-it deal, a fascinating QB competition could be brewing with Michael Penix Jr. — especially with Penix rehabbing a knee injury. Buck breaks down: Why Atlanta moved on from Cousins What Tua brings to the Falcons offense The strengths and criticisms of Michael Penix Jr. How Kevin Stefanski’s system fits both quarterbacks Why competition might be the best thing for the Falcons Is this a win-win situation for Atlanta, or another chapter in the Falcons’ quarterback carousel?

Mike Johnson, Ali Mac, and Beau Morgan spend some time with College Football and NFL Draft Analyst and Co-Host on Sports Radio WWL in Louisiana Mike Detillier! Mike, Beau, Ali, and Mike discuss what positions the New Orleans Saints need to go after and get help in through free agency and the draft, what the response has been from Saints fans after the team signed linebacker Kaden Elliss, how Mike feels about the defensive tackles in this year's NFL Draft, how Mike feels about the Atlanta Falcons signing Tua Tagovailoa, if Mike thinks there will be a quarterback competition between Tua and Michael Penix Jr., how Mike feels about the running backs in this year's NFL Draft, and some of the guys the Saints have lost so far in free agency this year.

HR3 - Falcons in neutral this season, not going in reverse or driving forward until 2027 In hour three Mike Johnson, Ali Mac, and Beau Morgan quickly touch on some of the biggest headlines around the local and national sports scene, continue to react to the Atlanta Falcons reportedly signing linebacker Channing Tindall, edge rusher Azeez Oljulari, defensive lineman Chris Williams, and center Corey Levin, explain why they think the Falcons free agency moves indicate that Ian Cunningham, Matt Ryan, and this Falcons team is not going 'all in' until they know what future of the quarterback position is, continue to react to the Atlanta Braves officially announcing that Braves.TV is live, and that the pricing for Braves.TV is $99.99 per season or monthly for $19.99, with discounts for A-List/Premium members, talk about how they feel about the pricing of Braves.TV, talk about how it's one more subscription you have to pay for, but that overall this is a good thing for the Braves. Then, Mike, Ali, and Beau spend some time with College Football and NFL Draft Analyst and Co-Host on Sports Radio WWL in Louisiana Mike Detillier! Mike, Beau, Ali, and Mike discuss what positions the New Orleans Saints need to go after and get help in through free agency and the draft, what the response has been from Saints fans after the team signed linebacker Kaden Elliss, how Mike feels about the defensive tackles in this year's NFL Draft, how Mike feels about the Atlanta Falcons signing Tua Tagovailoa, if Mike thinks there will be a quarterback competition between Tua and Michael Penix Jr., how Mike feels about the running backs in this year's NFL Draft, and some of the guys the Saints have lost so far in free agency this year.

Why Kaden Ellis was not worth 'the gamble' for Falcons? Hawks 'coming together' at the right time to make playoff push. Uncertainty of Michael Penix Jr. being 'the guy' for Falcons is valid.

Carl and Mike get into some brief Falcons talk as they share a few thoughts on whether or not there is validation for those who say they are unsure of Michael Penix Jr. in regards to being able to return and be the starting QB for the team and be successful.

NFL Free Agency is officially underway, and the business side of the league is moving fast. On this episode of Deals & Deadlines, Matt Chernoff and sports agent Hadley Engelhardt break down the biggest sports business stories of the week — from major NFL deals to the future of sports media and ticketing. Topics in this episode include: • The Maxx Crosby trade drama between the Raiders and Ravens • Why Tua Tagovailoa signing with the Falcons for $1.3M actually makes sense • The biggest winners and losers of NFL free agency deals • The Braves launching Braves.TV and BravesVision — what it costs fans • The business impact if Team USA is eliminated from the World Baseball Classic • Why the Hawks canceled Magic City Night after announcing it weeks earlier • How the Ticketmaster monopoly case could change ticket prices • The WNBA labor negotiations and what’s at stake for the league Plus, insight into how agents and teams negotiate during the NFL’s legal tampering period and why free agency is considered the “Super Bowl” for agents. Watch new episodes of Deals & Deadlines every Wednesday. Subscribe for more sports business insight from the 680 The Fan team. Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Deals & Deadlines 00:32 NFL Free Agency Begins & Legal Tampering Explained 01:39 Maxx Crosby Trade Drama with the Ravens 03:36 Who Really Won the Crosby Situation? 04:23 Falcons Signing Tua Tagovailoa for $1.3M 06:08 The Dolphins’ $99M Dead Cap Decision 07:56 What This Means for Michael Penix Jr. 09:08 Jordan Davis’ $78M Extension & DT Market Reset 10:30 Browns Continue Dealing with the Deshaun Watson Contract 12:02 Why Certain NFL Teams Drive Up Free Agent Prices 13:39 BravesVision & Braves.TV Streaming Explained 15:03 Will Fans Actually Pay for Braves.TV? 18:25 World Baseball Classic & Team USA Controversy 20:38 Why the Hawks Canceled Magic City Night 24:00 Ticketmaster Antitrust Case & Ticket Price Changes 27:02 WNBA Labor Negotiations Explained 29:46 Olympics Softball Games Moving to Oklahoma CitySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this Tuesday edition of 2 Pros & A Cup Of Joe, Jonas Knox, Brady Quinn, & LaVar Arrington react to the Falcons signing left-handed Tua Tagovailoa to their team alongside fellow lefty Michael Penix Jr. Plus, the guys discuss the World Baseball Classic between USA and Mexico, another Magic City edition of ICYMI, and more!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 2 Pros & A Cup Of Joe, Jonas Knox, Brady Quinn, & LaVar Arrington recap the Falcons signing Tua Tagovailoa and now in the QB room with fellow left hander Michael Penix Jr. Plus, the guys go over the big money moves that the Raiders made in just day one of free agency, chat with Pete Prisco on NFL free agency, and much more!!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ken and Lima evaluate the Cleveland Browns' quarterback options, comparing Deshaun Watson's return with the internet-fueled debate over Shedeur Sanders. They also discuss Michael Penix Jr. as a potential target and preview upcoming interviews with Mary Kay Cabot and Travis Steele.

Hour 3 dives deep into the Miami Dolphins quarterback discussion, starting with Kyle Crabbs breaking down the signing of Malik Willis, praising the front office for executing a plan, keeping future flexibility, and emphasizing the importance of the draft. Crabbs also discusses Tua Tagovailoa joining the Atlanta Falcons, where he has a chance to start while Michael Penix Jr. begins the season injured. Later, Pete Prisco joins with a differing take, saying he would've started Quinn Ewers and arguing that Tua is the more talented QB, sparking a debate on Miami's long-term outlook. The hour also covers NBA and college updates, including the Miami Heat winning five straight games and Brad Marchand's injury with the Florida Panthers, while Joe shares a humorous story from the tennis court.

Kyle Crabbs joins the show to break down the Miami Dolphins signing of Malik Willis, saying it makes sense given the team's quarterback needs and their history with him from Green Bay Packers. He praises the Dolphins front office for having a plan and executing it, noting that Willis' contract doesn't limit future flexibility and that Miami can still target a quarterback in the 2027 draft if necessary. Crabbs also points out that the Dolphins will likely stay out of the free-agent market for the rest of the year, emphasizing that filling big holes through the draft is key. He adds that the franchise has done a solid job cleaning up the salary cap, and discusses Tua Tagovailoa signing with the Atlanta Falcons, where he has a real chance to start while Michael Penix Jr. begins the season injured.

Michael Turner and Ovie Mughelli react to the Atlanta Falcons signing quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to a one-year deal and what it means for the team moving forward. They break down the mixed reaction from fans, Tua's injury history, and whether he can compete with Michael Penix Jr. for the starting job. The discussion also touches on Atlanta's roster strategy, why the move might be a short-term solution, and whether the Falcons are truly trying to win now or setting up for the future. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Carl and Mike open up the show with Falcons talk as they react to the late report of the team signing Christian Harris and agree the move feels like one in which they are simply looking to add depth at the position. They then get back into their thoughts on Tua Tagovailoa agreeing that the move is one which raises some confusion due to the fact Tua seemingly played in the pistol or shotgun just as much as Michael Penix Jr.

Carl and Mike get back to football talk as they share thoughts on moves made around the NFL, both agreeing the Raiders appeared to have done really well as they signed several free agents including a few Georgia Bulldogs. They also discuss the reports of the Falcons informing Michael Penix Jr. of their plans to sign Tua Tagovailoa, which Carl believes was a good thing to do to help the Falcons QB embrace being wanting to compete and prove he deserves the QB1 role.

3 O'clock Hour :00 – Carl and Mike continue with NFL talk as they continue to share thoughts on the latest free agency moves including the reports of the Falcons signing Tua Tagovailoa, which they agree the former Dolphins QB has yet to prove he can win in the NFL. :20 – Carl and Mike get back to football talk as they share thoughts on moves made around the NFL, both agreeing the Raiders appeared to have done really well as they signed several free agents including a few Georgia Bulldogs. They also discuss the reports of the Falcons informing Michael Penix Jr. of their plans to sign Tua Tagovailoa, which Carl believes was a good thing to do to help the Falcons QB embrace being wanting to compete and prove he deserves the QB1 role. :40 – Carl and Mike get into what's on DA-DA's mind as they discuss seeing Ronald Acuna Jr. run the bases in a WBC game, Walt Weiss still feeling good about the Braves despite the team dealing with pitching issues and if Jalen Johnson needs to find himself in MVP convos next season.

2 O'clock Hour :00 - Carl and Mike open up the show with Falcons talk as they react to the late report of the team signing Christian Harris and agree the move feels like one in which they are simply looking to add depth at the position. They then get back into their thoughts on Tua Tagovailoa agreeing that the move is one which raises some confusion due to the fact Tua seemingly played in the pistol or shotgun just as much as Michael Penix Jr. :20 – Carl and Mike get back to Falcons talk as they take calls from listeners to allow them to share their thoughts on the reported signing of Tua Tagovailoa. As they discus, Carl explains why he believes the decision races the question as to if the move can actually work for the Falcons. :40 – Carl and Mike get back to Falcons talk as they share some thoughts on Drake London and when he may get his new deal with the Falcons and agree the Alec Pierce deal from the Colts may signal a big payday for London. They then get into some Hawks talk as they preview their matchup with the Mavericks and agree the team is trending in the right direction as they make a push to get out of the play-in round.

HR1 - Falcons FA moves prove they're using season to evaluate Michael Penix Jr. In hour one Mike Johnson, Beau Morgan, and Ali Mac quickly touch on some of the biggest headlines around the local and national sports scene, react to the Atlanta Falcons reportedly signing former Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to a one-year $1.3 million-dollar veteran minimum deal, react to some of the other signings the Falcons reportedly made yesterday, explain why they think the Falcons signing Tua to a veteran minimum deal was an easy decision for the Falcons to make, react to the news that In the weeks before Falcons linebacker James Pearce Jr. allegedly rammed his Lamborghini SUV into WNBA player Rickea Jackson's car in Doral, Florida at least seven 911 calls to police indicate heightened fears from his unidentified girlfriend that she was being stalked and harassed, and that she believed Pearce had tried to break into her residence, and that police on Jan. 13 told Pearce to stay away from the home of a woman described as his ex-girlfriend, according to police records obtained by ESPN. Then, Mike, Beau, and Ali continue to react to the Atlanta Falcons reported free agent signings, including the Falcons reportedly signing former Falcons wide receiver Olamide Zaccheaus back to the team, signing former Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Jahan Dotson to a 2-year $15 million-dollar deal worth up to $17 million dollars including $10 million dollars fully guaranteed, and signing former Falcons tight end Austin Hooper back to the team on a one-year, $3.25 million-dollar contract. The Morning Shift crew also explains why they think Olamide Zaccheaus and Jahan Dotson will complement Drake London well in the Falcons passing game, reacts to the NBA cancelling the Atlanta Hawks' Magic City game promotion, explain why they think NBA players and executives should be speaking out and protesting a lot more if they're going to speak out on and protest against the Hawks' Magic City Night, and then close out hour one by diving into the life of Ali Mac in Ali's Mac Drop!

Mike Johnson, Beau Morgan, and Ali Mac continue to react to the Atlanta Falcons reportedly signing quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to a one-year $1.3 million-dollar veteran minimum deal, continue to let listeners call in and give their thoughts on the Falcons' reported free agent signings, and explain why they think Tua Tagovailoa will only be the Falcons starting quarterback next season if he's clearly better than Michael Penix Jr. or if Penix Jr. isn't ready to start week one.

HR3 - If all goes right for Falcons, Tua Tagovailoa won't get meaningful snap in Atlanta In hour three Mike Johnson, Beau Morgan, and Ali Mac quickly touch on some of the biggest headlines around the local and national sports scene, continue to react to the Atlanta Falcons reportedly signing quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to a one-year $1.3 million-dollar veteran minimum deal, continue to let listeners call in and give their thoughts on the Falcons' reported free agent signings, explain why they think Tua will only be the Falcons starting quarterback next season if he's clearly better than Michael Penix Jr. or if Penix Jr. isn't ready to start week one, react to Atlanta Braves left-handed pitcher Joey Wentz having to miss the entire 2026 season after tearing his ACL while covering first base against the Tampa Bay Rays on Sunday, continue to react to the Falcons reported free agent signings, including the Falcons reportedly signing former Falcons wide receiver Olamide Zaccheaus back to the team, former Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Jahan Dotson to a two-year $15 million-dollar deal worth up to $17 million dollars including $10 million dollars fully guaranteed, and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to a one-year $1.3 million-dollar veteran minimum deal. Ali, Mike, and Beau also explain why they think Dotson and Zaccheaus are the exact type of wide receivers the Falcons need for their offense. The Morning Shift crew also spends some time with Miami Dolphins beat writer and reporter for ESPN Marcel Louis-Jacques. Mike, Beau, Ali, and Marcel discuss what the Atlanta Falcons are getting in quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, if Marcel thinks the Dolphins struggles last season had more to do with Tua or former Dolphins Head Coach Mike McDaniel, what type of leader Marcel thinks Tua is, and how Marcel feels about the Dolphins signing quarterback Malik Willis to be their next starting quarterback.Finally, Ali, Mike, and Beau close out hour three by answering people's questions about anything in the Morning Mailbag!

Nick and Jonathan react to Tua Tagovailoa joining the Atlanta Falcons on a one-year deal to compete with Michael Penix Jr. They debate whether Tagovailoa is a legitimate starter or a career backup while comparing his trajectory to Kyler Murray. The discussion also covers a potential trade for Dillon Gabriel and evaluates the concussion history of stars like Denzel Ward. 02:04 - Tua Tagovailoa Joins The Falcons 04:54 - Tua Versus Michael Penix Jr. 07:51 - Dillon Gabriel Trade And Concussions

2 O'clock Hour :00 - Carl and Mike open up the show with Falcons talk as they react to reports of the team signing Austin Hooper, Olamide Zaccheaus, Nick Folkm Tyler Allgeier signing with the Cardinals as well as reports the team pursing Tagovailoa, which Carl expresses his dislike for the move should the Falcons truly sign the now former Dolphins quarterback. :20 – Carl and Mike get back into more football and Falcons news as they react to reports of David Onyemata signing with the Jets on a one-year deal, which they guys agree the move is one which makes sense in regards to the direction the team wants to go with younger and faster players. They also share thoughts on the Falcons signing Jahan Dotson and share more thoughts on why it would be ok for the Falcons to bring in a quarterback who Michael Penix Jr. should have to compete with to earn the starting role. :40 – Carl and Mike get back into some brief Falcons talk and share thoughts on why they believe the signing of Jahan Dotson is a move with a lot of upside as the team. They then get into some Hawks talk as they share thoughts on the team winning six straight games and haw well they have played overall since the trading of Trae Young.

4 O'clock Hour :00 – Carl and Mike get back to NFL/Falcons talk as they react to Cameron Thomas signing with the Atlanta, agreeing it's a 'depth' move and not something to address the current James Pearce Jr. situation. As they discuss, they react to a recent report that 911 had been called multiple times on Pearce Jr. regarding his relationship with Rickea Jackson prior to his arrest. :20 – Carl and Mike get into more Falcons talk as they discuss why Drake London may be seeking at least $30M per year in a new deal after the Colts signed Alec Pierce to a four-year, $114M contract extension. They then get into some Georgia Tech hoops talk as they share thoughts on the direction the Yellow Jackets will go in to replace Damon Stoudamire, who they fired on Sunday after they finished dead last in the ACC, missing the conference tournament. :40 - Carl and Mike comeback and react to Adam Shefter reporting the Falcons are signing Tua Tagovailoa to a one-year deal and share thoughts on concerns over the former Dolphins QB injury history, however agree that if the Falcons are bringing Tua in to compete with Michael Penix Jr., it's a smart decision due to how cheap of an insurance policy he will be.

5 O'clock Hour :00 – Carl and Mike get right back into Falcons talk as they continue to react to reports of the team signing Tua Tagovailoa to a one-year deal and discuss the potential of a long term dreal being in Tua's future with the Falcons assuming things do not work out with Michael Penix Jr. :20 – Carl and Mike come back and react to reports of the NBA cancelling the Hawks' "Magic City Night" promotion. :40 – Carl and Mike close out the show with final thoughts on the several freee agency signing that took place today including the Falcons signing Tua Tagovailoa. As they discuss, they agree that while they are concerned about the Tua signing, other signings the Falcons made show they are 'doing a good job seeing what needs to be addressed'.

Carl and Mike get right back into Falcons talk as they continue to react to reports of the team signing Tua Tagovailoa to a one-year deal and discuss the potential of a long term deal being in Tua's future with the Falcons assuming things do not work out with Michael Penix Jr. 

Carl and Mike comeback and react to Adam Shefter reporting the Falcons are signing Tua Tagovailoa to a one-year deal and share thoughts on concerns over the former Dolphins QB injury history, however agree that if the Falcons are bringing Tua in to compete with Michael Penix Jr., it's a smart decision due to how cheap of an insurance policy he will be.

Carl and Mike get back into more football and Falcons news as they react to reports of David Onyemata signing with the Jets on a one-year deal, which they guys agree the move is one which makes sense in regards to the direction the team wants to go with younger and faster players. They also share thoughts on the Falcons signing Jahan Dotson and share more thoughts on why it would be ok for the Falcons to bring in a quarterback who Michael Penix Jr. should have to compete with to earn the starting role.

92.9 The Game Atlanta Falcons Reporter Joe Patrick speaks about the Falcons decision to release Darnell Mooney, what the next key decision is for the front office, what the Falcons current WR room looks like, possible contract restructures, if the team may make more moves in the tight end room, takeaways from Michael Penix's interview with Jon Gruden, and what he feels is actually the timeline for Michael Penix Jr.

HR1 - Falcons only have 2 contracted WRs on roster after Darnell Mooney's release In hour one Mike Johnson, Ali Mac, and Beau Morgan quickly touch on some of the biggest headlines around the local and national sports scene, let you hear Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. tell Jon Gruden on Gruden's podcast ‘Gruden goes long' that he'll be ready to play week one, and that he'll even be ready for Falcons training camp. Mike, Beau, and Ali react to what Penix Jr. had to say, let you hear Gruden tell Michael that he believes he's going to have big season this upcoming season, react to what Gruden had to say, talk about how there's no reason not to believe that Michael Penix Jr. will be ready for Falcons training camp and week one of the regular season, react to NFL.com writer Kevin Patra's article where he lists what he thinks are the needs of all the NFC teams are heading into free agency, react to him saying the top three needs for the Falcons are defensive tackle, linebacker, and tight end, react to the breaking news that the Falcons are reportedly planning to release wide receiver Darnell Mooney, react to the news that legendary college football coach and college football analyst Lou Holtz has died at the age of 89, explain why they think Holtz was just as great of an analyst as he was a college football coach, and then close out hour one by diving into the life of Beau “Squidbilly” Morgan in The Life of Squid!

Mike Johnson, Ali Mac, and Beau Morgan let you hear Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. tell Jon Gruden on Gruden's podcast ‘Gruden goes long' that he'll be ready to play week one, and that he'll even be ready for Falcons training camp. Mike, Beau, and Ali react to what Penix Jr. had to say, let you hear Gruden tell Michael that he believes he's going to have big season this upcoming season, react to what Gruden had to say, and talk about how there's no reason not to believe that Michael Penix Jr. will be ready for Falcons training camp and week one of the regular season.

Send a textPower without competence looks the same on a warehouse floor as it does on an NFL sideline. We open with everyday leadership—those “leads in training” who get the title but not the respect—and use it to frame a bigger sports question: when do names, roles, and reputations actually translate to trust? From there, we dive into a full Falcons reset: the Cousins contract autopsy, what “bad” really means when a bet fails, and the live decision facing Atlanta—double down on Michael Penix Jr. or press the gas with a proven starter like Kyler, Tua, or even Flacco. We challenge the sacred cow that the quarterback must be the franchise's north star, and unpack how accountability, body language, and scheme fit matter more than slogans.Culture threads through everything. Cleveland's low player grade for Kevin Stefanski sparks a wider look at how much is coach, how much is ownership, and why free agency choices will tell the truth. Then it's over to the NBA, where the Hawks' uneven year, injuries, and roster churn set the stage for Jonathan Kuminga's immediate impact. Talent didn't appear out of nowhere; the fit did. That leads us straight into the MVP cage match: best player versus most valuable player. We weigh Jokic's historic dominance, SGA's steadying force, and Cade's irreplaceability case while pushing back on stat-chasing and media-led narratives. Awards need evidence tied to winning, context, and who keeps a team's floor from collapsing.The final turn is personal. News of strikes near Bahrain isn't a headline for us; it's a map of places we lived, ate, and walked. That proximity shifts how we talk about war, service, and who bears the cost when powerful people make imperfect decisions. Sports can feel like an escape, but the same truths apply: strong systems beat loud speeches, clear roles beat big titles, and real leadership shows up when pressure is highest. If you're here for honest football talk, sharp NBA takes, and a human lens on what headlines miss, you're in the right place.If this hit home or challenged your thinking, follow the show, share it with a friend, and drop a review telling us what “leadership” means to you.Support the show

In hour 2 Steak gets in to Michael Penix Jr's conversation with Jon Gruden, and the Braves offense's urgency to start the season hot.

Steak gets in to the interview that Michael Penix Jr recently did on Jon Gruden's podcast, and how positive the Falcons' quarterback seems headed in to the 2026 season

The Falcons have a big decision to make at quarterback, not knowing if Michael Penix Jr will be ready for start of season, but where do they turn? They could very well bring in another franchise quarterback, and not just a "Band-aid". After all, everyone that was involved with drafting Michael Penix Jr is gone.

Atlanta Braves insider Grant McAuley joined The Morning Shift to discuss the Jurickson Profar suspension. He shared his feelings on the outfielder's decision and what the club can do with his vacated contract. Jon Gruden hosted Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. on his podcast, and the two joked about his snap count. The Morning Shift reacted to that before transitioning into a discussion about Kyler Murray and Trey Hendrickson. NFL insider Eric Edholm joined the show to finish the hour. They discussed what might be coming up for the Falcons and the rest of the league in free agency. What about the move to release Kyler Murray? 

Jon Gruden hosted Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. on his podcast, and the two joked about his snap count. The Morning Shift reacted to that before transitioning into a discussion about Kyler Murray and Trey Hendrickson.

Mike Johnson, Beau Morgan, and Ali Mac react to the Atlanta Falcons announcing yesterday that they'll be unveiling their new uniforms on April 2nd with a video featuring running back Bijan Robinson, wide receiver Drake London, linebacker Jalon Walker, and cornerback A.J. Terrell reacting to seeing the new uniforms for the first time. Mike, Beau, and Ali also discuss Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. not being featured in the video, and talk about how that's eyebrow raising.

HR1 - Losing Kaden Elliss & Dee Alford would be tough pill to swallow for Falcons In hour one Mike Johnson, Beau Morgan, and Ali Mac quickly touch on some of the biggest headlines around the local and national sports scene, react to the Atlanta Falcons announcing yesterday that they'll be unveiling their new uniforms on April 2nd with a video featuring running back Bijan Robinson, wide receiver Drake London, linebacker Jalon Walker, and cornerback A.J. Terrell reacting to seeing the new uniforms for the first time. Mike, Beau, and Ali also discuss Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. not being featured in the video, and talk about how that's eyebrow raising. The Morning Shift crew also talks about the one Atlanta Falcons free agent they would want to have the Falcons re-sign if they could only choose one from the team to bring back, and then close out hour one by diving into the life of Ali Mac in Ali's Mac Drop! On this edition of the Mac Drop, Mike, Beau, and Ali talk about the ‘Robot Phone' coming out soon, what its features are, and how this phone is the official sign that we're now living in the future.

Hr1 2:00 - After the combine, it feels like no one is completely in on Michael Penix Jr. Rumors a plenty at the combine about the Falcons interest in other potential starting QBs. Are they fill ins, or are they replacements? 2:20 - Daily download  2:40 - Kispert loving the new life and game in Atlanta

Patrick Daugherty (@RotoPat), Denny Carter and Kyle Dvorchak (@kyletweetshere) break down the latest news coming out of the NFL Combine, most of it quarterback-focused. First, however, they debate Sean Payton handing over play-calling duties to Davis Webb. Is this actually a smart move for one of the NFL’s most celebrated offensive minds? Next they dive into the reports that Derek Carr might un-retire, that Anthony Richardson and Tyson Bagent (!) could be traded, and that J.J. McCarthy will for sure face competition. They also look into items on Kyler Murray, Mac Jones, Brian Thomas Jr. and D.J. Moore in a jam-packed show. (2:20) – Is Brandon Aubrey worth $10 Million per season? (6:50) – Analyzing Sean Payton handing over play-calling duties to Davis Webb (14:25) – QB Headlines, Pt. 1: Michael Penix Jr. and J.J. McCarthy’s starter status in doubt for 2026, Malik Willis’ potential salary ceiling in free agency, Derek Carr reportedly eyes return to NFL (23:30) – QB Headlines, Pt. 2: Speculation of Kyler Murray seeking release from Cardinals, Anthony Richardson trade suitors, latest buzz on market for Tyson Bagent and Mac Jones (46:50) – More News & Notes: Potential trade market for Brian Thomas Jr. and D.J. Moore, report of Eagles turning to “Shanahan tree offensive philosophies” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ben Maller talks about which NFL teams will be kicking the tires on Kirk Cousins after he's officially fired by the Falcons, if there is a deeper meaning to Kevin Stefanski not declaring Michael Penix Jr the starter, Too Much or Not Enough, #QueenOfHearts w/ LaReina, and more!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Live from the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis where Buccaneers HC Todd Bowles tells Rich what impressed him about WR Emeka Egbuka and RB Bucky Irving during their draft processes, what frustrated him most about the Bucs missing the playoffs last season, Mike Evans possibly leaving via free agency, what Baker Mayfield's emergence has meant to the franchise, his reaction to his former Jets QB Sam Darnold winning the Super Bowl with the Seahawks, and more. Eagles GM Howie Roseman and Rich discuss Philadelphia's disappointing (and drama-filled) 2025 season, talented-but-temperamental WR AJ Brown's future in Philly, the Tush Push, and more. Falcons HC Kevin Stefanski and Rich discuss Atlanta's plans and QB moving forward with Michael Penix Jr. and possibly without Kirk Cousins, says why he can't wait to coach RB Bijan Robinson, and reveals his favorite story about coaching Cleveland Browns All-Pro DE Myles Garrett. Panthers GM Dan Morgan and Rich discuss Luke Kuechly's Pro Football Hall of Fame induction, Carolina winning the NFC South in head coach Dave Canales' 2nd season, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices