ESPN makes big predictions for Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr.

Atlanta Falcons rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. isn’t expected to play much for the team in 2024. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t big expectations on his shoulders.

The Falcons surprised most people when they took Penix a few weeks after handing 35-year-old Kirk Cousins ​​a 4-year, $180 million contract. But there were few questions about Penix’s tools as a passer, which made him worthy of being a first-round pick.

ESPN+ analyzed every quarterback selected in the NFL Draft and discussed their fit with the team, as well as short- and long-term predictions. From a scheme and fit standpoint, Jordan Reid thinks Penix makes perfect sense in Atlanta.

“Coach Raheem Morris and offensive coordinator Zac Robinson both come to the Falcons after spending the previous five seasons with the Rams, so we can expect similar concepts to what Sean McVay is executing in Los Angeles – and the Penix’s explosive arm and fielding accuracy fit. What’s still unclear is when exactly Penix might see game action,” Reid wrote on ESPN+.

One of the problems with Robinson’s connection to Penix is ​​the timeline. Penix is ​​not expected to start until 2026 at the earliest. That’s when most of Cousins’ guaranteed money has already been paid.

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If Robinson has a lot of success with the Falcons over the next couple of years, he will be at the top of many head coaching searches in 2026. If he doesn’t find success, he will be replaced.

Every NFL team has changed offensive coordinators over the past two seasons. The chances of a Penix and Robinson pairing are microscopic.

Just because he’s not a starter doesn’t mean Penix won’t see time in regular season games. He is expected to enter 2024 as the No. 2 quarterback. No one wants Taylor Heinicke to take away snaps from Penix, and the Falcons’ moves since acquiring Penix have shown that.

A cleanup duty or injury to Cousins ​​puts the 24-year-old Penix on the field.

ESPN fantasy football analyst Mike Clay predicted 471 passing yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions in 2024 for Penix.

It was Reid’s long-term prediction that got the Falcons excited about Penix’s potential. When asked what stat each quarterback could lead the league in five years, Reid focused on explosive plays.

“Completing throws at least 20 yards downfield,” Reid wrote. “Penix was exceptionally accurate in those third-level zones at Washington, making a national-record 46 throws of 20-plus air yards during his final college season. Expect this skill set to shine in the program of the Falcons.”

The Falcons invested heavily in offensive players before the arrival of Cousins ​​and Penix. Cousins ​​is counted on to help get the most out of Kyle Pitts, Drake London and Bijan Robinson over the next two years.

Penix was drafted to ensure the young core continues to produce while he spends his prime years with the Atlanta Falcons.