The Falcons named six captains for 2025: Bates III, Elliss, Pinion, Penix Jr., Lindstrom, and Matthews. They’ll wear C patches with tenure stars, covering offense, defense and special teams. Penix Jr. is highlighted as a captain, a strong signal about his role as a potential franchise quarterback as Atlanta eyes a breakout season.

The selections emphasize veteran leadership on the line and in the secondary, plus Pinion’s steadying influence on special teams, forming a balanced leadership core as the team enters the regular season.

The New York Giants face the Atlanta Falcons in a crucial matchup as both teams look to improve their standings. The Giants, struggling with a 2-12 record, are coming off a heavy loss to the Ravens, while the Falcons, at 7-7, recently secured a narrow victory over the Raiders.

Key players to watch include Giants rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers, who is on the verge of breaking the franchise's rookie reception record, and Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr., making his first start after the benching of Kirk Cousins.

In a gritty matchup, the Atlanta Falcons edged out the Las Vegas Raiders 15-9, led by Bijan Robinson's impressive 125 rushing yards. Quarterback Kirk Cousins struggled but managed to connect with Drake London for a touchdown.

KhaDarel Hodge's special teams contributions, including a blocked punt, were crucial for the Falcons, who snapped a four-game losing streak and improved to 7-7, keeping their playoff hopes alive.

Meanwhile, the Raiders continued their downward spiral, suffering their 10th consecutive loss and remaining tied for the worst record in the NFL.

The Atlanta Falcons remain in first place in the NFC South despite a two-game losing streak, including a heavy loss to the Denver Broncos. Coach Raheem Morris emphasized the need for a reset during the bye week, as the team aims to recover and prepare for upcoming challenges.

Quarterback Kirk Cousins is struggling, failing to throw a touchdown pass in consecutive games, while the defense has been underwhelming, ranking last in the league for sacks. The bye week comes at a crucial time with several players injured, but the Falcons hope to bounce back against tough opponents after the break.