With the eighth overall pick in the NFL Draft, the Atlanta Falcons draft Michael Penix — quarterback out of Washington. Penix was widely viewed as one of the best quarterbacks in this draft class and a truly can’t-miss prospect. Let’s take a look at what Michael Penix Jr. brings to the Falcons.
Michael Penix Jr. NFL Draft Profile 2024
Michael Penix
Position: QB
Height: 6’2″
Weight: 216 lbs
Age: 23
College: Washington
Michael Penix Jr. Highlights
RELATED | Full Michael Penix Jr. NFL Draft Profile, Highlights and Stats
Michael Penix Scouting Report
Strengths
Michael Penix Jr. has proven to be one of the best deep-ball throwers in this draft class. He has incredible touch and accuracy on the deep ball which shows that he has the ability to push the ball down the field. Penix has a quick release and does a great job at getting the ball out quickly when he feels pressure.
He can make tight-window throws while putting great velocity on the ball. His overall accuracy makes him such an intriguing player to general managers across the league. He plays with great confidence which is a trait that we have seen all of the top NFL QBs possess.
Weaknesses
Unfortunately, Michael Penix Jr. has a history of season-ending injuries — four of them to be exact. This is what ultimately will drive some organizations away from drafting Penix. He has stayed healthy in each of the past two seasons, which gives hope that his durability might not be as big of a concern. Penix also has shown very little mobility when maneuvering outside of the pocket. He has excelled as a true pocket passer in college but will have to learn to extend plays with his legs in order to have success in the NFL.
What to Expect From Michael Penix in 2024
Penix brings incredible arm talent to the table, as last year proved that he is one of, if not the best, deep ball thrower in the draft. While those passes will be tough to replicate in the NFL given the jump in talent, having a skillset of Penix’s can probably only benefit his team. Leading Washington to the National Championship last season, Penix also brings strong confidence and leadership. The concern though for him, as it is for all rookie quarterbacks is injuries. Like Anthony Richardson last season, rookie quarterbacks often times overestimate their abilities and wind up hurt. Given Penix’s injury history, keeping him healthy will be the number one key in 2024.
