Michael Penix Jr. is one of the most intriguing quarterbacks in the 2024 NFL Draft. He has overcome a lot of adversity during his college football career to become the Heisman Trophy runner-up in 2023 and still be ranked outside of the first round of the draft by many. Some even regard him as a potential Day 3 pick due to durability issues.
Penix started his career at the University of Indiana as three-star recruit out of Tampa, Florida. He played in three games as a true freshman until he suffered a torn ACL and was redshirted. Named the starter that next season in 2019, Penix only played in six games before suffering another season-ending injury. Penix returned as the starter in 2020 but suffered another torn ACL, his third season-ending injury in three seaons.
At Indiana, Penix threw for 4,197 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions. He was a promising young quarterback, only if he could stay healthy.
Michael Penix Jr 2024 NFL Draft profile
On the verge of giving up football, Penix decided to follow his former offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Kalen DeBoer to the University of Washington— a decision that would prove pivotal for his career.
Penix would soon become one of the best quarterbacks in the nation under Washington's stellar passing attack.
In 2021, he threw for 4,641 yards, 31 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. He ranked first in passing yards, pass completions, and pass attempts in the Pac-12 and was ranked eighth in Heisman voting.
As a Heisman favorite in 2022, Penix threw for 4,903 yards , 36 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. He led the Huskies to a Pac-12 Championship and Sugar Bowl win as well as a National Championship appearance.
Strengths
Penix stands out as a top QB prospect in the draft, boasting one of the most powerful arms in the field. As a left-handed passer, he combines exceptional touch and velocity, effortlessly launching long-range bombs with precision. His football intelligence is remarkable, swiftly absorbing pre-snap data and processing it efficiently.
With exceptional field vision, Penix navigates through his progressions seamlessly, consistently delivering accurate passes that provide his receivers ample opportunities to shine.
Weaknesses
The biggest concern about Penix is his durability after he suffered three season-ending injuries in three years. Despite enduring multiple rib injuries while playing for the Huskies, his commitment on the field remained unwavered.
Penix is an upper-body thrower whose hip stiffness can limit torque on big throws. He also tends to force poor throws when plays break down, forcing him to go off-script.
Grade: Round 1-2