All signs are favorable for Falcons Michael Penix, Jr. after OTAs

The shockwaves that the Atlanta Falcons selection of Michael Penix, Jr. sent across the NFL on draft night this year were the last thing on mind when the Falcons sent out the card. If you don’t believe me, check out Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles’ reaction. Nevertheless, Atlanta now has its quarterback of the present in Kirk Cousins ​​​​and perhaps of the future in Penix. While Penix was one of the most ready-to-draft quarterbacks, Atlanta felt that giving him a few years to sit and learn behind Cousins ​​would benefit his growth. As Sports Illustrated’s Daniel Flick reports, it’s still early, but it looks like the sentiment from OTAs so far is quite good.

Penix, 24, has been as expected: his arm strength is remarkable, his accuracy has been a bit of a roller coaster and his leadership and willingness to learn have been praised by the coaches…

…the story of Atlanta’s rookie class is Penix’s development – and so far, Morris is pleased.

“I love what he’s become,” Morris said of Penix. “It’s really special when you talk about a rookie who grows and develops and knows what he should do, what he could do, even after the fact, with his self-corrections.”

Another reason so many people were confused by the draft pick on draft night was Penix’s age and questioning drafting an older prospect to sit and learn. Most thought if you were going to develop a quarterback, find one with more upside like JJ McCarthy or wait and take Spencer Rattler, who is now a New Orleans Saint.

However, there were things Penix needed to work on before entering the league. His footwork and accuracy weren’t always consistent, and he lacked the confidence to use his athleticism outside the pocket after his ankle injuries. These aspects of his game are potentially fixable during his years behind Cousins.

Learning the professional game on the sidelines isn’t ideal for everyone, but the Flowery Branch front office deemed it beneficial for Penix to reach his ceiling as a franchise quarterback. If the Falcons are right, general manager Terry Fontenot and this Atlanta team may have added a new wrinkle to the world of team-building.