The Atlanta Falcons had a massive need at quarterback, but that was before they signed Kirk Cousins roughly six weeks ago.
Needless to say, drafting Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft wasn’t on a lot of radars heading into the first round, even if Ian Rapoport tried to warn us.
Despite inking Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract, which included $100M guaranteed, and having more pressing needs defensively, the Falcons couldn’t pass up on getting a succession plan in place.
While he won’t see the field unless an injury occurs, Penix now gets the chance to learn from Cousins for four seasons under Falcons offensive coordinator Zac Robinson.
Penix is a bit older as an NFL Draft prospect, where he’ll turn 24 before the season begins, but the Falcons seem to be subscribing to the theory that sitting a player for a year or two can do them a lot of good.
Some NFL Draft experts have touted Penix for having the best arm in the draft, citing the excellent velocity he can get behind his throws. Former Super Bowl-winning head coach Bruce Arians loves Penix’s potential, but he’ll have to wait a while before showing off his arm talent in Atlanta.
Related: Most underrated prospects in 2024 NFL Draft, including Michael Penix Jr.