With the 8th overall pick, the Atlanta Falcons shocked much of the sports world by selecting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. from the University of Washington.
Penix, a superb quarterback who threw 67 touchdowns in two seasons at Washington.
Penix is the perfect insurance policy for Kirk Cousins, a 36-year-old who is recovering from an Achilles injury. Penix will have an opportunity to learn from Cousins and takeover when the quarterback retires.
In his first press conference with the team, Penix shared thoughts on a dream coming true.
“Since I was a little kid, to be drafted, to get that phone call one day and for it to come true and for me to be around my family and all of my friends, it was a special a special moment and it’s something I’ll remember forever.
Penix endured multiple injuries during his collegiate career, but all of his hard work paid off after the Falcons selected him with a top 10 draft pick.
“I’m blessed to be able to be sitting in this chair in front of all of you,” Penix said. “I’ve been through a lot you know, throughout my career, you know, but you know, I feel like throughout adversity, it made me tougher, it made me stronger. Everything I’ve been through, it made me into the person and player I am today.”
The Falcons have had its share of electrifying quarterbacks throughout the years and Penix could be next in line. When asked about Mike Vick, Penix shared how he was inspired by the Falcons’ No. 1 draft pick in 2001.
“He [Vick] did a lot of creative things, but I feel like we both throw the ball very well,” Penix said. ‘I think a lot of people see the way he extend plays and the way he runs and forget that he had a cannon. He could just flick the ball effortlessly. I’m gonna give him his flowers.”
Some sports commentators took issue with the Falcons for drafting Penix after signing Cousins. However, Penix is ignoring the naysayers and staying focus on the primary goals.
“I’m just super excited, because this has always been a childhood dream of mine,” Penix said. “As far as the decision that was made, I have no control over that. All I can control is what I do and what I bring to this team. I’m gonna be a great leader on and off the field. And I’ll be a great person and great teammate as well. So I’m just super excited to be able to do that.”
About Post Author
