Atlanta Falcons Shock NFL Community by Drafting QB Michael Penix Jr. at No. 8

The Atlanta Falcons made a surprising move in the 2024 Draft by choosing quarterback Michael Penix Jr. as the No. 8 pick. This decision sparked discussions among NFL fans and experts, especially considering the team's obvious defensive requirements and the recent signing of Kirk Cousins as their new starting quarterback to a significant contract.

In March, Atlanta signed 36-year-old Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract with $100 million in guarantees. The move was seen as an attempt to address previous years of disappointment.

However, when it came time for the Falcons to make their first pick in this year's draft, they chose to add a young player to the quarterback roster by selecting Penix Jr.

Before the pick was announced, Cousins’ agent Mike McCartney posted on X, formerly known as Twitter: “Bout to be shocked.”

Later, McCartney told NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo that the pick “was a big surprise” to Cousins’ camp.

"We were completely caught off guard by this. In reality, the entire league was caught off guard," McCartney expressed. "We were not given any advance notice. Kirk received a call from the Falcons while they were making their selection. That was the first time we heard about it. It was never brought up in any previous discussions."

After the first round, Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot and head coach Raheem Morris emphasized to the media that Cousins was their designated starting quarterback.

The front office duo shared their enthusiasm for having a player who can help them win immediately in the former Minnesota Vikings QB. At the same time, they are excited about building for the future with Penix Jr.

They made the decision because they aim to avoid drafting so high in the future. They believed it was wise to use their top 10 pick to address potential quarterback options down the line.

Morris mentioned that Cousins' response to learning about the team's decision to choose Penix Jr. would be kept confidential.

"He was notified during a crucial time and given the circumstances, it was understandable that he needed some privacy," Morris explained.

When it comes to discussing personal matters with a quarterback, it's best to choose the right moment. Their reactions are usually kept private, unless they choose to share with you.

Just like all of us, Kirk is a competitor. You can anticipate that things will unfold as you would expect in such situations.

Cousins speaks to the media in his introductory press conference after signing for the Falcons.

Cousins speaks to the media in his introductory press conference after signing for the Falcons.

Mike Stewart/AP

‘The Green Bay model’

Both Fontenot and Morris mentioned "the Green Bay model" when discussing their quarterback strategy on Thursday. In 2020, the Packers followed a similar approach by selecting quarterback Jordan Love in the first round, even though they already had Aaron Rodgers on the team.

Rodgers complained publicly about the selection, but it ended up motivating him. The current New York Jets QB went on to win two MVP awards in a row, while Love remained on the sidelines.

In 2023, when Rodgers moved to New York, Love took over as the starting quarterback after being a back-up for three seasons. He quickly found success, leading the Packers to the playoffs in his first season as the leader of the team.

Love played in all 17 games, where he successfully completed 64.2% of his passes for a total of 4,159 yards and 32 touchdowns.

Now, the Falcons are looking to replicate this success with Cousins and Penix Jr. joining the team, hoping for a similar positive outcome.

Morris pointed out the contrast between Cousins, who has achieved success in the NFL, and Penix, a rookie entering the league.

Penix Jr. performs in the 2024 NFL Combine.

Penix Jr. performs in the 2024 NFL Combine.

Kirby Lee/USA TODAY Sports/Reuters

Penix will be hungry and eager to learn, with a strong desire to sit back and absorb. I saw Kirk do it, and now it's Michael's turn.

Kirk shouldn't be burdened with that. His role is to be a professional and lead by example in his daily routine. Michael will have the opportunity to witness this firsthand, which is a valuable experience for a young player.

Penix Jr. had two impressive seasons with Washington, becoming the first FBS player to pass for 4,500-plus yards in consecutive seasons since Patrick Mahomes achieved the feat in 2015-16.

However, despite his talent, the 24-year-old's durability has been a concern due to four season-ending injuries he suffered while playing for Indiana before transferring to Washington.

Editor's P/S:

The Atlanta Falcons' decision to draft quarterback Michael Penix Jr. has sparked mixed reactions. Some believe it's a wise move, while others question the need for another quarterback given the recent signing of Kirk Cousins. The Falcons' front office has stated that Penix Jr. is a potential long-term option, while Cousins is the current starter. This strategy is similar to the "Green Bay model," where the Packers drafted Jordan Love despite having Aaron Rodgers. Love eventually took over as the starter and led the Packers to the playoffs. The Falcons hope to replicate this success with Cousins and Penix Jr.

However, there are concerns about Penix Jr.'s durability, as he has suffered multiple season-ending injuries. The Falcons will need to manage his workload carefully to ensure he stays healthy. Additionally, Cousins may be unhappy with the team's decision, as he was given no advance notice. It remains to be seen how this situation will play out, but the Falcons' quarterback strategy is certainly unconventional.