The 2024 NFL Draft started on Thursday, and the first round featured a plethora of shocks that sent the NFL world into a frenzy.
The move that really did it, though? When the Atlanta Falcons took Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick in the draft.
NFL World Still in Shock Following the Michael Penix Pick
While most of the top six to seven picks went as predicted, things changed when the Falcons got on the clock.
Many thought they could target the first defensive player off the board. Maybe CB Quinyon Mitchell or EDGE Dallas Turner, or another player.
However, when the Falcons got on the clock, they had to decline a plethora of trade offers. Ultimately, they ended up taking Penix, who they believed was the best quarterback available.
“It just doesn’t add up,” said Mina Kimes on ESPN’s “First Take.” “It doesn’t add up for the team or the player.”
.@minakimes isn't sold on the Falcons taking Michael Penix Jr. at No. 8 in the draft.
"It just doesn't add up. It doesn't add up for the team or the player." pic.twitter.com/6WXVD8XKYW
— First Take (@FirstTake) April 26, 2024
“If he sits for four or five years, that’s a great problem to have because we’re doing so well at the position,” said Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot told reporters on Thursday.
The Falcons signed Kirk Cousins earlier this offseason to a four-year, $180 million contract, making the selection of Penix even more confusing to the public.
According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, Penix did not take a 30 visit to the Falcons, and the team only attended a 45-minute workout of his, meeting with him just at the Combine.
“It’s almost unheard of for a QB taken in the 1st to NOT be on a team’s top-30,” said Russini. “In the end, ATL felt comfortable with the work they did.”
“Falcons playing Candyland while everyone else playing Checkers,” said Pro Football Network’s David Bearman.
Penix will turn 24 years old later this offseason, and if he sits behind Cousins for three to four years, he will start for the first time at 27 or 28 years old. He also suffered four separate season-ending injuries during his collegiate career.
However, not everyone is against it.
KEEP READING: Analysis and Grades for All 7 Rounds of the 2024 NFL Draft
“When the draft happened last night, I was unbelievably perplexed by this pick. And then I went to bed, and I thought about it a little bit more,” said Dan Orlovsky, a former NFL quarterback, on ESPN’s “Get Up.” “And then I had some insight shared, and not only do I love the pick, I totally understand it.”
The Falcons will be on the clock once again on Day 2, holding the 43rd overall pick in the second round and two third-round picks, Nos. 74 and 79. They also have four picks on Day 3.
Looking for everything you need surrounding the 2024 NFL Draft? Make sure to check out the latest draft results, overall team grades, and updated best remaining players available at every position!