Michael Penix Jr., who surprised many during the NFL draft’s first round, got a call from Kirk Cousins to congratulate him. Interestingly, while Cousins reached out, his agent wasn’t sure about the Atlanta Falcons bolstering their quarterback lineup.
Penix had a positive chat with Cousins but didn’t share details. He was particularly thrilled to receive a text from another left-handed Falcons quarterback, Michael Vick, the next day.
During his first press conference in Atlanta, Penix couldn’t hide his excitement when talking about Vick, whom he admired since childhood and even wore cleats inspired by him.
Watching the draft from his home in Florida, Penix was joined by his family, including his parents, who flew with him to the Falcons’ practice facility.
Penix cautioned Falcons fans not to expect him to match Vick’s dynamic speed as a runner.
“I’m not saying our styles are the same,” Penix explained. “He was more about improvising. We both throw the ball well… People sometimes forget how strong his arm was. He made throwing look easy.”
Penix’s strong left arm was the main reason the Falcons, initially expected to focus on an edge rusher, picked him. This decision came just a month after they signed Cousins to a massive contract.
As a rookie at 24, Penix led FBS schools in passing yards and ranked third in touchdown passes in 2023. Despite his achievements, his college career was marked by injuries, including two torn ACLs and shoulder problems.
The Falcons’ general manager emphasized that Cousins, despite being 36, is the current starter, while Penix represents the future.
This draft strategy surprised many, including Cousins’ agent, who said Cousins didn’t anticipate the pick.
