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Atlanta Falcons Draft Often Injured, 24 Y.O. QB With No. 8 Pick

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics | By Jordan Sigler | Last updated 4/25/24

The Atlanta Falcons signed an aging veteran quarterback, Kirk Cousins, in free agency. They drafted an older quarter prospect with the No. 8 pick–Michael Penix Jr.

Many analysts thought the Falcons would draft Dallas Turner or Byron Murphy II with the No. 8 pick to improve their pass rush. Instead, the Falcons chose to address a long-term need at quarterback. Cousins signed a four-year deal worth $180 million in March, but the Falcons still felt they needed extra depth at the position.

Michael Penix Jr. has a history of injury

Per an article on Fox Sports, Penix has a history of injury in college:

Penix suffered season-ending injuries in each of his four seasons at Indiana (2018-21) — two torn ACLs and two shoulder issues — before transferring to Washington for the 2022 season.

Despite that, Penix said his medical exams at the combine were “good” and he’s ready to roll in the NFL.

Scouting report on Atlanta Falcons QB Michael Penix

While Penix has a lot of talent, scouts have made several references to his age. Penix is heading into the draft at 24, nearly three years older than fellow draft-class quarterback Drake Maye.

Per Lance Zierlein with the NFL Network, Penix has plenty of talent despite glaring red flags:

“Penix will be a 24-year-old rookie with a history of season-ending injuries at Indiana and impressive production while at Washington. The Huskies’ offensive design helped declutter coverages for Penix, allowing him to throw a higher number of intermediate and deep passes. He plays with smart pocket mobility and a willingness to get rid of the football, which makes it difficult to sack him. His delivery is bundled and his release point is very low, but his monster game against Texas showed flashes of impeccable touch.

Penix has plenty of arm but needs to work with more consistent timing between the numbers to eliminate unnecessary contested throws. He’s a pocket passer who was ineffective in 2023 when defenses were able to crank up the heat and make him move his feet. Playing in a shotgun-based spread attack might give him his best chance to succeed, but he needs to prove he can thrive outside of the Washington offense and stay free from injury.”