When Washington meets Michigan to play for the college football national championship on Monday night, NFL scouts will be watching Huskies quarterback Michael Penix Jr. closely as his NFL Draft stock continues to rise.
The Heisman Trophy finalist (he finished second to winner Jayden Daniels) is a sixth-year senior who wowed viewers in the semifinal with his electric performance. Penix completed 29 of 38 passes for 430 yards for his career-best performance on the biggest possible stage.
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While his draft stock has suffered due to multiple knee injuries and a shoulder injury over the course of his college career, his level of play has reignited heavy interest in the 23-year-old thanks to his playoff performance. When looking at Penix Jr. and his opportunities at the next level, it’s important to take into account his playing style and the specific needs of each team.
Michael Penix Jr. is highly regarded for his arm strength and playmaking ability which is why he’s such an intriguing NFL prospect for teams aiming to strengthen or rebuild their quarterback position. Taking into consideration current team needs and his style of play, here are five NFL teams that could be fit in April’s draft.
5 teams that could target Michael Penix Jr. in 2024 NFL Draft
Seattle Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks have been linked to Penix Jr., which would provide a transition for him from college in Washington to the NFL in the same state. Although Geno Smith has performed well at times, there is room for a quarterback like Penix Jr. to develop and eventually take over. His strong arm and playmaking skills align well with Seattle’s scheme.
Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons may be considering a quarterback in the 2024 draft as their starter, Desmond Ridder, hasn’t firmly established himself as their long-term solution. Penix Jr. could seamlessly integrate into Atlanta’s offense, which boasts a running game behind Bijan Robinson and a set of dynamic receivers.
His ability to extend plays using his legs and accurately thrown passes would be a welcome addition to Atlanta’s existing offensive weapons.
Chicago Bears
While the Chicago Bears have Justin Fields, there is some uncertainty about whether he will be the long-term franchise quarterback. The Bears have the first pick in the NFL Draft and many observers believe if they move on from Fields they will take USC quarterback Caleb Williams.
But If Chicago decides to explore other options and perhaps move down to acquire a treasure of picks for the first pick, Penix Jr.’s strong throwing arm and mobility could make him an appealing choice. He brings a playing style like Fields but with a potentially stronger ability to ramp up Chicago’s passing game.
Los Angeles Rams
Yes, Matthew Stafford is having an MVP-like season but the Los Angeles Rams might be considering their future after Stafford. Michael Penix Jr.’s arm talent and ability to make plays on the go could fit well into Sean McVay’s innovative offense system.
With wide receiver breakout stars Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp, he’d have built-in weapons from day one. The Rams have a history of making shrewd moves with a focus on the future and selecting a quarterback like Penix Jr. could mark the beginning of a new era in LA.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers could be in search of a quarterback if they decide that Kenny Pickett isn’t the long-term solution. Penix Jr.’s accurate arm and functional mobility would be an excellent match for Pittsburgh’s offense, which has historically valued quarterbacks with strong arms.