With starting QB Penix questionable, Falcons promote Stick from practice squad against Dolphins

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. (AP) — The Atlanta Falcons promoted quarterback Easton Stick to the active roster from the practice squad for Sunday's game against the Miami Dolphins, providing more depth with starter Michael Penix Jr.'s status uncertain.

Penix is listed as questionable with a bone bruise on his left knee after being limited in practice through the week.

Kirk Cousins, the former starter who lost his job to Penix for the final three games last season, would start if Penix is held out. Saturday's move would allow Stick to serve as Cousins' backup against the Dolphins.

Coach Raheem Morris said Wednesday the team would protect Penix and “will not put him in harm’s way” if he failed to show in practice he had the necessary mobility to elude pass rushers and play the position.

When asked Wednesday if he expects to start, Penix said: “That’s the plan. Heck yeah.”

The Falcons on Saturday also signed inside linebacker Ronnie Harrison to the active roster from the practice squad. Safety Jordan Fuller was activated to the active roster from the reserve/injured designated to return list. Inside linebacker Divine Deablo (left forearm fracture) was placed on the reserve/injured list.

Also, wide receiver Dylan Drummond was added to the active roster from the practice squad and wide receiver Drake London was added to the injury report as questionable with a hip injury.

Cousins, 37, would be making his first start in more than 10 months. Cousins’ only appearance in the first six games this season came in a 30-0 loss at Carolina on Sept. 21, when he completed 5 of 7 passes for 29 yards.

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