Kirk Cousins called Michael Penix Jr., who shocked a lot of people during the first round of the NFL Draft, to congratulate him. It’s interesting to note that even though Cousins made contact, his agent wasn’t certain the Atlanta Falcons would improve their quarterback group.
Penix spoke with the cousins in a nice manner but withheld specifics. The following day, he was especially excited to get a text from Michael Vick, another left-handed quarterback with the Falcons.
Penix couldn’t contain his excitement when discussing Vick, whom he had idolised since he was a young child and who had even inspired him to design cleats, during his first news conference in Atlanta.
Penix, accompanied by his parents, flew to the Falcons’ practice facility with him after watching the draft from his Florida home.
Penix warned Falcons supporters not to expect him to run as quickly as Vick did.
Penix clarified, “I’m not saying our styles are the same.” He focused more on improvising. Both of us are good ball throwers. Sometimes people overlook just how powerful his arm was. He made throwing appear effortless.
The primary reason the Falcons selected Penix—who they had originally anticipated to concentrate on an edge rusher—was his powerful left arm. Only one month had passed since they had given Cousins a huge contract.
In 2023, as a rookie, Penix, then 24 years old, was third in touchdown passes and led FBS schools in passing yards. His collegiate career was marred by injuries, including two ruptured ACLs and shoulder issues, despite his accomplishments.
The general manager of the Falcons made it clear that Penix is the team’s future, and even at 36, Cousins is the starting quarterback right now.
Many were taken aback by this selection strategy, including Cousins’ agent, who said that Cousins had not expected the pick.
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