The Atlanta Falcons surprised the football world by selecting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. in the 2024 NFL Draft, despite recently signing Kirk Cousins to a massive contract. During a live stream with Bleacher Report, Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts, along with other panelists, learned of the pick in real-time. While some were taken aback by the decision, Pitts had a positive reaction, describing Penix as a “slinger” and expressing excitement about the opportunity for him to learn from a seasoned professional like Cousins. Despite his initial shock at the unexpected pick, Pitts ultimately saw the potential benefits of Penix joining the team.
Pitts revealed that he was surprised by the selection, as he had anticipated the team going for a defensive player. He also mentioned his belief that the Minnesota Vikings would have been a more likely destination for Penix. The Vikings had the 11th overall pick but traded up to 10th to select another quarterback, J.J. McCarthy, leaving Penix available for the Falcons. While Pitts may have been caught off guard by the pick, he acknowledged the talent and potential that Penix brings to the team, emphasizing the importance of having a strong mentor like Cousins for the young quarterback.
Following the draft pick, there were reports of frustration and confusion from Cousins’ camp, as they viewed the selection of Penix as potentially signaling the team’s intention to move on from Cousins in the future. The first two years of Cousins’ contract with the Falcons are fully guaranteed, providing some security for the team in the event they decide to make a change at the quarterback position after that timeframe. Despite the uncertainty surrounding Cousins’ future with the team, the Falcons are confident in their decision to draft Penix and are optimistic about the young quarterback’s potential to learn and grow under the guidance of Cousins.
Pitts’ positive reaction to Penix joining the team was indicative of the overall excitement surrounding the Falcons’ selection. While the pick may have been unexpected, particularly given the recent signing of Cousins, there is a sense of optimism and anticipation for what Penix can bring to the team. The opportunity for Penix to learn from Cousins, a seasoned veteran in the league, bodes well for his development and growth as a quarterback. As the Falcons look to build for the future, the selection of Penix represents a strategic move that aims to set the team up for success in the years to come.
The dynamic between Penix and Cousins will be one to watch as the Falcons navigate the upcoming season and beyond. With Cousins serving as a mentor and role model for the young quarterback, there is potential for a strong partnership to develop, benefiting both players and the team as a whole. As the NFL world processes the unexpected draft pick and its implications for the Falcons’ quarterback situation, all eyes will be on Penix and Cousins as they work together to elevate the team to new heights. The excitement and uncertainty surrounding the Falcons’ quarterback situation only add to the anticipation for the upcoming season, as fans eagerly await to see how Penix and Cousins will contribute to the team’s success on the field.
