Will ex-Buccaneers HC influence draft plans after praising Michael Penix Jr.?

"As far as the football grade, I love [Washington's Michael Penix Jr.] because he does things I love to do," Arians told The Tampa Bay Times' Rick Stroud. "He puts (the ball) up the field. He's as accurate on throws up the field as anyone I've seen in 15 years. Just to fight through that last game [against Michigan] after he had that ankle tore up. But what he did to Texas was unbelievable."

Penix Jr. — a 2023 Heisman finalist — threw for 4,903 yards, 36 TDs, 11 interceptions and the FBS' sixth-best QBR (84.1) in his final season at Washington. He also led the Huskies to their second College Football Playoff appearance.  

However, there are concerns about his injury history and age. He suffered season-ending ACL tears and shoulder injuries while he was at Indiana from 2018-21. He turns 24 shortly after the draft on May 8.

Despite the lingering questions, Arians — now a senior advisor to Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht — is a QB guru. In 17 years as an OC and HC, he coached Peyton Manning (Colts), Tom Brady (Buccaneers) and Ben Roethlisberger (Steelers), quite the track record at the most critical position.    

Mayfield exceeded expectations, throwing a career-high 28 passing TDs in 17 games. His market value is a four-year deal worth $27.1M annually. It wouldn't be a surprise if the Buccaneers franchise tag (a one-year, $35.95M deal) him in case he backtracks next season.

The Buccaneers have the 26th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Penix Jr. could still be on the board at this point.

The best strategy for Tampa Bay is keeping Mayfield and drafting another QB, like Penix Jr. If the 28-year-old regresses, the Buccaneers have a fallback plan. And if he has another great season, they'll have an intriguing backup who could become a trade chip.