NFL Draft 2024 results: Michael Penix Jr won’t be going to the Seahawks

We have our first big surprise of the NFL Draft, and what a surprise it is.

The Atlanta Falcons were on the clock with the eight overall pick and they selected... Washington Huskies quarterback Michael Penix Jr! Not only is this major vote of confidence in the lefty passer who had a phenomenal season in 2023, but it also comes as a surprise given that he leapfrogged both JJ McCarthy and Bo Nix.

Here is an excerpt from Dane Brugler’s assessment on Penix, who he ranked as the sixth overall QB in this class:

A two-year starter at Washington, Penix was a productive lefty passer in offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb’s shotgun spread scheme. After four season-ending injuries in his four years at Indiana, he turned himself into a legitimate NFL prospect with the Hu skies, including a memorable 2023 season — led the FBS in passing yards per game (326.9), finished runner-up for the Heisman Trophy (highest finish in school history), led Washington to the national championship game. Asuper-aggressive triggerman, Penix can drive the football with quick game or attack one-on-one matchups down the field. Not only did he throw to NFL -caliber receivers at Washington, but he also benefited from an above-average offensive line, and his effectiveness plummeted when he felt the walls closing in (see the 2023Michigan tape). Overall, Penix is inconsistent in several key areas (mechanics, anticipation, pressure reaction), but his arm confidence and willingness to attack every square inch of the field can be a productive formula in the right situation. His mental toughness will be a strong selling point in NFL draft rooms.

This is obviously very exciting news for Penix and for Falcons fans, but it may come as a bit of a disappointment for those of us who were hoping to see him stay local and go to the Seattle Seahawks. This also spices up the rest of the night with regards to how this impacts the rest of the night. Stay tuned for more!