It didn’t take long for the 2024 NFL Draft to deliver the ultimate surprise.
Less than two months after they signed Kirk Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract, the Atlanta Falcons drafted another quarterback in Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. with the No. 8 overall pick.
The left-handed Penix, who led the Huskies to January’s national championship game, ranked fifth among quarterbacks and 24th overall on ESPN draft guru Mel Kiper Jr.’s big board.
He was the fourth quarterback taken Thursday, behind USC’s Caleb Williams, who went first overall to the Chicago Bears; LSU’s Jayden Daniels, who went second to the Washington Commanders; and UNC’s Drake Maye, who went third to the New England Patriots.
Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy went No. 10 to the Minnesota Vikings, who traded up from No. 11 in a deal with the Jets.
The Falcons signed Cousins, 35, as a free agent on March 13, hoping the veteran quarterback could solidify the position for 2024 and beyond. Penix turns 24 next month.
Known for his accuracy, particularly on deep throws, Penix passed for 4,903 yards, 36 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 15 games last season. But Penix’s collegiate career, which began at Indiana, was plagued by injuries, including a pair of ACL tears.
Penix’s pick marked the first time in the common draft era that four quarterbacks went in the top eight. His top target at Washington, wide receiver Rome Odunze, went a pick later to the Bears at No. 9.
