Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. stays true to himself and puts in the work

FLOWER BRANCH, Ga. — Donning a No. 9 jersey is nothing new for Michael Penix Jr.

The Atlanta Falcons quarterback has worn this number since he was 4 years old. There is photo proof.

“It’s always been No. 9 for me,” Penix said.

The choice is a nod to his uncle, who played football for the University of South Florida, and a thank you for the invitation to his very first college game.

Penix himself wore number 9 in high school, college and professionally. The latest became official Friday, when Penix took to the practice field for the first day of the Falcons’ three-day rookie minicamp. Atlanta drafted Penix with the 8th overall pick just two weeks ago.

“It’s something I’ve dreamed of since I was a kid,” Penix said. “Now that I’m here, I want to continue to prove myself every day. Show not only myself but also the team, I’m here. I’m here to work and here to help this team win football games in every way possible.

This includes being the backup.

The Falcons already had their starting quarterback for 2024 when they brought in Penix. Veteran Kirk Cousins ​​signed a four-year, $180 million contract in March. Head coach Raheem Morris has never been shy about Cousins ​​being the QB1 of the present.

Penix is ​​therefore the future.

As if Penix didn’t already draw attention to himself as a first-round pick, he gets even more with any mention of potential time on the field.

“I feel like at this level – in the NFL – everyone is in the spotlight,” Penix said. “You have to prove yourself every day. That’s the beauty of the game. That’s the beauty of this game. And that’s why it’s so rare for guys to make it. Like it’s the 1%. So you want to be in the spotlight.

“For me, I’m just going to be myself every day. I’m not trying to be anyone else. Just go out there and do the work I’ve always done. The results will will see.”

It’s too early for real results to be seen, but Penix worked about an hour Friday with quarterbacks coach TJ Yates and his assistant, DJ Williams. During the open viewing period, Penix and fellow rookie passer John Paddock (an undrafted free agent) threw passes only to their coaches, then also to tight ends and wide receivers.

So far, Penix feels satisfied with what he has learned. Even though he knows there is still a lot to do, especially when his only goal is to improve.

“That’s what being a student of the game is,” Penix said. “You need to absorb as much information as possible, especially at this level. It only gets harder. Every level you go up, it will get harder and harder. But I’m ready for it.”

Penix and his fellow recruits still have two days of minicamp ahead of them. Veterans can join us next week, as organized team activities begin Monday.

Even though he’s wearing his very first NFL jersey.

“I’m here now,” Penix said. “I can’t sit here and not be starstruck anymore. I have to produce.”