Michael Penix Jr. didn't light the league on fire in his rookie season, but he showed some promise and gave Atlanta a glimpse of what he could be.
Now, in his second season as the full time starter The Athletic is making the bold prediction that Penix will throw 30-plus touchdown passes.
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It's a big bet on a young quarterback who can make the leap and become the franchise quarterback the team envisioned when he was taken No. 8 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft.
It sounds ambitious, especially considering his modest debut. Accuracy is a concern for the former Washington product as he completed only 58 percent of his passes last year, but the arm talent was undeniable.
Penix started just three games in 2024, stepping in for Kirk Cousins, and while his numbers weren't overwhelming, he showed glimpses of brilliance. He pushed the ball downfield, commanded the offense, and closed out the season with 723 passing yards in limited action which placed him eighth-most in the league over that stretch.
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As Penix garnered praise from offensive coordinator Zac Robinson who's been around the league a while has marveled at his quick release and with the weapons at his disposal it could be a breakout year for the signal caller.
As Robinson, a Sean McVay disciple, was brought in to modernize Atlanta's scheme. Robinson thrives on balance and explosive shot plays, the kind of system that suits Penix's aggressive style of play. Instead of reining him in, Robinson is expected to give his quarterback the freedom to attack deep and test defenses consistently.
The Falcons' offense is being rebuilt around him now, and that's where the confidence comes from. The key now is if Robinson can get the most out of Penix this season. He has the arm strength to stretch the field and the poise to create scoring opportunities in bunches.
Atlanta didn't draft Penix to be a caretaker. They drafted him to be a difference-maker.
If he settles into Robinson's system and sharpens his consistency, the jump from rookie flashes to 30-plus touchdowns this bold prediction for Penix is completely possible. For the Falcons, it could be the start of a new era behind their franchise quarterback.
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