The Atlanta Falcons spent the eighth overall pick in Thursday’s NFL Draft on an almost 24-year-old quarterback with a lengthy injury history just weeks after handing QB Kirk Cousins a $180 million contract.
This pick makes no sense. Atlanta just gave Cousins a four-year deal in March. $100 million guaranteed! And they spend a top pick on Washington QB Michael Penix Jr. Why???
Don’t get me wrong, I actually really like Penix. Aside from having the literal funniest name I’ve ever heard, he’s a solid prospect. But he’s old for an incoming rookie. And he’s torn his ACL twice and hurt both shoulders. All of that would make him a dubious selection this high up for a team that didn’t have a nine-figure deal with an incumbent QB.
To make matters worse, Cousins was flabbergasted at the selection. He was allegedly “shocked” and “disappointed,” according to NFL Network’s Jane Slater. (RELATED: ‘Come On’: Goodell Reacts To Draft Crowd Absolutely Hating On Him)
As we all sit in shock over the Atlanta pick, a source tells me Kirk Cousins just as “shocked” and “disappointed” Never said anything to him or his reps about a QB in 1st round despite suggesting they would. Still “it’s a business”
— Jane Slater (@SlaterNFL) April 26, 2024
The Falcons apparently warned Cousins they could draft a QB, but didn’t mention that they would do it in the first round, The Athletic’s Dianna Russini reported.
The Falcons called Kirk Cousins when they were on the clock to let him know.
From what I learned, Cousins understood a QB would be considered but he did not believe his successor would be taken in the first round. I’m told he’s a bit stunned.— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) April 26, 2024
I, too, am shocked at this pick. A first-round pick is so wildly valuable in the NFL. You have a chance to completely change the trajectory of your team and your entire city. And I think the Falcons really blew it. If they wanted to draft a QB to sit behind Kirko, they could’ve taken 21-year-old J.J. McCarthy. The kid’s almost three year’s younger than Penix, has way less injury history and … oh yeah. He just beat Penix’s Washington Huskies in the college football national championship. Make it make sense.