The Atlanta Falcons made a surprising move in the 2024 NFL Draft by selecting Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the No. 8 overall pick. This came as a shock since the team had already signed Kirk Cousins from the Minnesota Vikings earlier in the offseason. Cousins was reportedly not informed about the team’s decision to draft Penix, leading to speculation about how the two quarterbacks will fit into the team’s plans.
Cousins, who was aware that the Falcons were considering drafting a quarterback, was reportedly stunned that Penix was selected in the first round. The Falcons had informed Cousins that they were considering a quarterback at some point in the draft, but the selection of Penix so early was unexpected. The move raises questions about whether Penix will compete with Cousins for the starting job or if he will serve as a backup and learn behind the veteran quarterback.
The Falcons’ decision to draft Penix at No. 8 overall is surprising given the investment they made in Cousins, who signed a four-year, $180 million contract with $100 million guaranteed. With Cousins turning 36 years old and coming off an injury, it makes sense for the team to have a backup option or a potential successor in place. However, the timing and the high draft pick used on Penix make the situation unique and raises uncertainties about the team’s quarterback situation going forward.
Cousins has been a successful starting quarterback in the NFL, leading the Vikings to the playoffs in the 2022-23 season. With the addition of Cousins to an offense that already features talented players like Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts, the Falcons have the potential to be competitive in the upcoming season. However, the long-term future of the quarterback position in Atlanta has become more uncertain following the selection of Penix in the first round of the draft.
It remains to be seen how the Falcons will manage the quarterback situation moving forward, with Cousins likely to start the 2024 season if he is fully recovered from his injury. Penix may have the opportunity to learn and grow behind Cousins, or there could be a competition for the starting job. The unexpected selection of Penix has added an element of intrigue to the Falcons’ roster and has sparked speculation about the team’s plans for the quarterback position in the future.
