Michael Penix Jr NFL Draft Overview
Position: Quarterback
Height: 6’3 (Unofficial)
Weight: 213 lbs (Unofficial)
Age: 23 years old
School: Washington
Michael Penix Jr Player Evaluation
Penix’s Strengths
- Elite arm Strength to all three levels of the field. The entire playbook is open. Can push the ball downfield and into tight windows with velocity and extreme confidence.
- His best and most consistent throw is the deep ball. Sometimes, he displays a good accurate throw with touch and always gives his guy a chance to make a play down the field.
- Solid at going through progressions. He’s manipulative; his helmet doesn’t stick in one spot.
- He is an underrated athlete; he can run for first downs if needed.
- Solid accuracy in the intermediate and short throws
Penix’s Weakness
- He needs to be more consistent with accuracy and timing in the intermediate passing game. You must rely on more than arm talent when late on throws in the NFL.
- Pocket Presence while in a crowded pocket or under pressure is concerning. In the championship game vs. Michigan, he showed that he is sometimes scared to get hit.
- Four straight years of severe ACL injury issues. He dealt with injuries late this season. Can he last more than 20 games in the league?
Projection: Top 15 Pick
NFL Comparison: Geno Smith
Best Fits: Atlanta Falcon, Minnesota Vikings, & Las Vegas Raiders
Bottom Line
Micheal Penix is a day-one starting quarterback in the NFL. Penix Jr’s best system fit is a heavy run first with play action and vertical passing scheme. Penix Jr has shown that he is ready for the NFL from the elite arm strength, being able to go through progressions, flashes of good accuracy, and pocket movement. To reach his potential, he needs to work on his pocket presence, intermediate accuracy, and consistency in playing on time. If so, Penix Jr has serious Pro Bowl/All-Pro potential.
Main Image: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
