Michael Penix Jr. isn’t fazed by all the outside noise surrounding the Atlanta Falcons’ draft strategy, he’s just ready to put in the work.
Penix, the No. 8 overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft, had an incredible college career. In his only two seasons at Washington, he completed 65.4 percent of his passes for 9,544 yards with 67 touchdowns and 19 interceptions.
Although it could be a while until we see Penix play “meaningful football,” he’s already making major moves off the field. The Maxwell Award winner has partnered up with Sharpie as part of its Rookies of the Year program.
We caught up with Michael Penix Jr. to discuss his expectations for his rookie season, learning from Kirk Cousins, and much more.
The Spun: Can you tell us about your partnership with Sharpie?
Michael Penix: The partnership with Sharpie has been amazing. I’ve been using Sharpie markers or pens since I was a kid. As far as our connection, it’s been great. I love the S-Gel pen. It’s a high-performance pen and it’s something I’ll use to sign all of my contracts. The best part about it as a lefty is that you don’t have to worry about smudging it on the paper.
The Spun: There was some negative talk surrounding the Falcons’ pick during the draft. How do you just tune that out?
MP: The thing about life is there’s always opportunity out there. This year, I’ll have the opportunity to learn, develop and continue perfecting my craft. I wasn’t thinking about anything else. I was just so excited to be a part of the draft and be a top-10 pick. I just want to go out there and show that I’m willing to work. I’m super excited for my future in Atlanta.
The Spun: We’ve seen some great quarterbacks thrive after sitting at least a year, like Patrick Mahomes and Aaron Rodgers. Has that crossed your mind at all?
MP: It does. Those guys had time to develop and didn’t have to worry about getting thrown into the fire right away. I’m going to take full advantage of my situation. I’m going to treat each day as I’m the starter. I’m going to pay attention to how Kirk moves and how he prepares. I don’t see sitting as anything negative.
The Spun: What have you already learned from Kirk Cousins?
MP: I’ve learned a lot already – the way he sees the field, the way he processes everything and throws an on-time ball. Small stuff like his cadence is important to pay attention to as well. I’ve been picking up on everything.
CFP bound and still undefeated 👀
Highlights from Michael Penix Jr.’s Heisman-worthy season ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/nd5KE3S1Da
— Pac-12 Conference (@pac12) December 7, 2023
The Spun: What was your favorite moment from your college football career?
MP: I’d say winning the Pac-12 was my favorite memory. Something about winning the last Pac-12 championship was so special. It’s also really cool beating a great team twice. And it helps that Oregon is one of our rivals.
The Spun: What are thoughts on Kalen DeBoer leaving Washington for Alabama?
MP: We’re all going to do what’s best for our families and stuff like that. I’m going to support him, personally, because of what he allowed me to do at the collegiate level. I’m super excited for him. I know he’s going to do a great job. Following up Nick Saban has to be tough, but if there’s anyone who’s going to do it, I know it’ll be him. I would love to play for him again if I could. He’s a great coach.
Michael Penix Jr. lists his All-Time Top 5 favorite QBs 🔥
(@Fanatics, @NFLPA) pic.twitter.com/k3w64fDmrl
— B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) May 29, 2024
The Spun: Your top-five quarterbacks list generated a lot of buzz. What led to every pick you made?
MP: You go through phases as a young kid. When I was really young, Mike Vick was my favorite quarterback. My father always told me about Warren Moon. What he did was special. I’m a little biased with him being a Washington guy, but he did a lot of great things. When I got to high school, Teddy Bridgewater was still in college. That’s when I started watching “Teddy 2 Gloves.” So once he got to the NFL, he was my favorite quarterback. Then as I’ve gotten older, I’ve watched Lamar Jackson and Patrick Mahomes. That’s where my top five came from.
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You can read more of our interviews with athletes and media stars here.