Written by: Adrian Beecher
In an exciting first-round pick for the 2024 NFL Draft, the Atlanta Falcons have chosen quarterback Michael Penix Jr., marking a significant addition to their roster. Selected eighth overall, Penix joins the Falcons after a stellar collegiate career, most recently with the Washington Huskies.
Penix, who stands at 6-foot-3 and weighs 213 pounds, has demonstrated exceptional skill and leadership in his college football career, which spans back to his days with the Indiana Hoosiers and later with the Washington Huskies. Over 49 games (45 starts), he completed 1,067 of 1,685 pass attempts, amassing a total of 13,741 yards, 96 touchdowns, and 34 interceptions, boasting a passer rating of 146.6.
The Tampa, Fla., native reached new heights in his final college season in 2023, earning the prestigious Maxwell Award, given annually to the nation’s most outstanding player. His performance included completing 363 of 555 passes for 4,903 yards, 36 touchdowns, and only 11 interceptions, culminating in a remarkable passer rating of 157.1. These efforts secured Penix a second-place finish in the Heisman Trophy voting and a spot on the All-Pac 12 second team.
Penix’s record-setting year included leading the Huskies to their first-ever College Football Playoff National Championship Game appearance, following a triumphant 37-31 victory over Texas in the Sugar Bowl. His ability to consistently deliver under pressure was evident as he led the nation with an average of 357 passing yards per game and finished second in total passing yards with 4,641 in 2022.
Before his time at Washington, Penix played at Indiana from 2018 to 2021. In 21 games (17 starts), he completed 342 of 576 pass attempts for 4,197 yards and 29 touchdowns. His tenure at Indiana was highlighted by receiving the Anthony Thompson Most Valuable Player Award and earning second-team All-Big Ten honors in 2020.
The Falcons’ decision to draft Penix is a strategic move to bolster their offense with a proven and versatile quarterback. Penix’s transition to the NFL is highly anticipated, with fans and analysts eager to see how his collegiate success will translate to the professional level. The Atlanta Falcons, by selecting Penix, signal their commitment to building a formidable and dynamic offensive team, aiming for higher achievements in the coming seasons.
