Michael Penix Jr.

The Falcons drew heavy criticism by selecting Penix with the No. 8 pick in the draft after signing Kirk Cousins to a lucrative four-year contract in the offseason. Penix has no clear path to playing time in 2024, although it should be noted that Cousins is coming off a torn Achilles and is entering his age-36 season. Penix has a strong, accurate arm and is good at sack avoidance, having taken just 16 sacks over his last two college season. Penix has a worrisome injury history, however. He's torn his ACL twice and has also endured shoulder issues. Penix won't be draftable in most redraft leagues, though he'd become a popular waiver-wire addition if Cousins were to go down.

The Atlanta Falcons have selected Michael Penix Jr. with the No. 8 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Fantasy Impact

Penix figures to be a backup option to Kirk Cousins for the first couple years of his career. This will be a great opportunity for the young QB to learn behind the established veteran. From a fantasy perspective, it will be years before Penix makes an impact.