Michael Penix Jr. was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons with the eighth pick of Round 1, according to Ian Rapoport.
Fantasy Football Impact for Michael Penix Jr. and the Atlanta Falcons
Michael Penix Jr. now enters Atlanta as the favorite to be the direct backup to entrenched starter Kirk Cousins. Assuming Cousins fully recovers from the Achilles injury he suffered in 2023, Penix's contributions as an immediate fantasy starter will have to be put on hold for the 2024 season and beyond.
Cousins was signed to a four-year 180 million dollar contract this year, with at least 100 million guaranteed. Penix, who is now 23 years old, will be 28 years old when Cousins' contract expires, which makes his selection all the more confusing. Another detriment to Penix's fantasy value is that Cousins has a no-trade clause in his contract. Unless Cousins underperforms or suffers another injury, it seems that Penix will remain behind Cousins for the long haul.
Fantasy Football Fallout
No players will be immediately affected by Penix's presence as long as Kirk Cousins is healthy and performing well.
Stock Watch
Risers
- None
Fallers
Overview
Penix's fantasy value takes a large hit as Cousins's direct backup. However, should the opportunity arise, Penix has the capability to become a fantasy QB1 and should be considered in the later round of fantasy rookie drafts as a taxi squad stash for now.
For more information on the 2024 NFL Draft, check out the Footballguys Rookie Draft Guide, where you can read about Michael Penix Jr. and other rookie team fits.