Falcons legend Michael Vick supports the Atlanta Falcons’ decision to draft quarterback Michael Penix Jr. as the eighth pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, despite the team’s recent signing of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract, including $100 million guaranteed.
“I think it’s the right move for the future,” Vick told Ryan Morik of Fox News Digital. “There’s no rush to get Michael Penix on the field. He’ll be ready eventually. Right now, with Kirk Cousins, you have a good quarterback who can move the chains and give you a chance to win every week. That’s all you can ask for. It was a very strategic and smart move by the Falcons.”
Cousins, who turns 36 in August, was considered a “win-now” acquisition, leading many analysts to be surprised when the Falcons used their No. 8 draft pick on Penix rather than selecting a player to build around the four-time Pro Bowl quarterback, who is recovering from a torn right Achilles suffered in October. Cousins has handled the potentially awkward situation professionally, earning the respect of his new teammates.
As of Thursday afternoon, DraftKings Sportsbook had the Falcons as the betting favorites to win the NFC South division title for the 2024 season with -115 odds. It’s intriguing to consider what the odds might have been if Atlanta had used their draft pick on an offensive playmaker or a pass-rusher instead of Penix.
“Getting to know Michael Penix has been great. He’s super cool,” Vick said about the fellow left-handed quarterback. “Our lefty connection is cool. We’ve talked about what’s ahead and how to be prepared. The most important thing for him now is learning how to be the ultimate teammate and a consummate professional.”
Some speculate that Penix could replace Cousins as Atlanta’s starting quarterback as early as next offseason, with the rookie turning 25 in May 2025 and eager to play. Penix might even be needed this September if Cousins faces any setbacks as he prepares to start the Falcons’ Week 1 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
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