The Atlanta Falcons were one of six teams to select a quarterback in the first round of the 2024 NFL draft, but fans had to wait until Week 16 for rookie Michael Penix Jr. to make his first start.
Penix, the former Washington standout, led the Falcons to an easy win over the New York Giants before suffering a 30-24 overtime loss to the Washington Commanders in Week 17. Despite the loss, Penix impressed those around the NFL with his poise in the face of adversity.
With the team trailing by seven against the Commanders in the fourth quarter, the rookie led an impressive touchdown drive highlighted by two fourth-down conversions. Penix’s clutch 13-yard touchdown pass to Kyle Pitts on fourth-and-goal helped send the game to overtime.
Washington got the ball first in overtime and rookie Jayden Daniels led the team on a game-clinching touchdown drive. It’s clear that both Daniels and Penix have bright futures, but where do they rank among the six first-round quarterbacks?
According to former NBA star Paul Pierce, Daniels and Penix are the top two quarterbacks from this year’s quarterback class. Pierce, known for his controversial sports takes, thinks Penix has passed the eye test.
“From what I see, I believe he is the second-best rookie quarterback,” Pierce said of Penix. “You can just see it, and I see it in Penix. You expect him to come out here and throw interceptions, all around just sloppy with it. He kept them in the game.”
.@paulpierce34 says Michael Penix Jr. is the 2nd best rookie QB
“You can’t fool the eyes… I’ll never forget when Chris Paul came into the league, I played one pickup game against him & I was like, this dude is going to be one of the best players. You just see it.” pic.twitter.com/seAD37PYJA
— Speak (@SpeakOnFS1) December 30, 2024
The entire 2024 QB class has been impressive this year but Daniels has shined the brightest thus far. No. 1 pick Caleb Williams is having an up-and-down rookie campaign, while No. 3 pick Drake Maye has improved throughout the season.
The biggest surprise has been Broncos rookie Bo Nix, who’s arguably had the second-best season of this year’s QB class. Nix has the better numbers, but Pierce trusts his eyes regarding Penix’s potential. Considering the Falcons could have drafted Nix, it’s clear they see that same upside in the rookie signal-caller.
Penix will make his third NFL start in Atlanta’s season finale against the Carolina Panthers this Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.