- Associated Press
Falcons provide first NFL draft surprise by selecting Washington QB Michael Penix Jr with No. 8 pick
The Atlanta Falcons provided the first major surprise of the NFL draft by selecting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. of Washington with the No. 8 overall pick on Thursday night. The Falcons extended their recent trend of selecting offensive skill players in the first round by drafting Penix one month after signing Kirk Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract with $100 million guaranteed.
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Atlanta Draft Picks
Michael
Penix Jr.
1
Rnd
8
Pk
QB
Position
- Draft Grade: F
- Pre-Draft Rank: 70
- School: Washington
- Height: 6' 3"
- Weight: 213
Expert Commentary
First F of the day! What is going on in Atlanta? This pick makes absolutely no sense. The Falcons signed Kirk Cousins and are now drafting a six-year college starter to sit behind him for two years? What sense does that make? Penix isn't the cleanest prospect and he has injury concerns. We'll find out what this looks like when he sees the field in 2026 or 2027.
2
Rnd
11
Pk
3
Rnd
10
Pk
3
Rnd
15
Pk
4
Rnd
9
Pk
5
Rnd
8
Pk
6
Rnd
11
Pk
6
Rnd
21
Pk
NFC South Standings
| W | L | T | Pct | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 8 | 0 | .529 | |
| 9 | 8 | 0 | .529 | |
| 7 | 10 | 0 | .412 | |
| 2 | 15 | 0 | .118 |
- y
- - Clinched Division
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