The Atlanta Falcons shocked everyone during the NFL Draft by selecting Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick, despite having recently signed Kirk Cousins to a lucrative four-year, $180 million deal. Cousins, who is 35 years old, is coming off an Achilles injury, leading the Falcons to consider a younger quarterback like Penix as a potential successor. Reports indicate that Cousins was not informed of the team’s plans to select Penix, with his agent only receiving a call while the Falcons were on the clock.
While ESPN refuted claims that Cousins was completely unaware of the Falcons’ intentions, it was still surprising to many that Penix was chosen, especially since he was considered the fifth quarterback in the draft. J.J. McCarthy was selected ahead of Penix by the Minnesota Vikings, adding to the shock of the Falcons’ decision. Cousins, who has a history of serious injuries including two torn ACLs, a clavicle fracture, and an A/C joint separation, may have been counting on more communication with the Falcons regarding their draft strategy.
Despite Cousins’ past injuries, the Falcons still took a risk by selecting Penix, who has shown potential but also has injury concerns of his own. The move indicates that the Falcons are looking to the future and potentially grooming a new franchise quarterback. Penix may have been a wildcard in this year’s draft, but his selection by the Falcons shows that they have confidence in his abilities and are willing to take a chance on him. This decision may have left Cousins feeling blindsided, but it also reflects the competitive and unpredictable nature of the NFL Draft.
Overall, the Falcons’ selection of Michael Penix Jr. in the first round of the NFL Draft was a surprising move that caught many off guard. While Kirk Cousins may have been unaware of the team’s plans, the decision to draft Penix indicates a shift in focus towards the future for the Falcons. With Cousins recovering from injuries of his own, the team may be looking to groom a new franchise quarterback in Penix, despite the risks that may come with his injury history. Only time will tell if this gamble pays off for the Falcons and if Penix can live up to the expectations set by his unexpected selection.
