Michael Penix Jr. 2024 Fantasy Outlook

The 8th pick in the 2024 NFL Draft was a Heisman finalist from Washington, Michael Penix Jr. The former Washington Husky will make $22.8 million over the next four seasons with the Atlanta Falcons.

Though he was a 1st round pick, he will start his career in the backup spot behind Kirk Cousins. After spending his previous few seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, Cousins recently signed a four-year, $180 million deal with the team.

Can Penix create fantasy value for himself in the backup role, or will fantasy owners have to wait for the future?

Michael Penix Jr. Fantasy Upside

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On the upside, Michael Penix Jr. is experienced and has the talent to succeed in the NFL. While he is still a backup, QB1 Cousins has proved to be injury-prone and is coming off a season-ending Achilles injury. It could be hard for him to get back to form. Though this will not guarantee fantasy production or upside for Penix, it is a reason to watch the waivers in case of disaster.

Another upside is the team around him. Hypothetically, if Penix were to start or see playing time, he would be surrounded by explosive playmakers like Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts. However, he could still experience the struggles of a rookie quarterback, his supporting cast is one of the best in the NFL and should help him produce if he receives playing time.

With an upside depending on the health and performance of Cousins, Penix should go undrafted in nearly all leagues. He does, however, have the potential to be the best waiver pickup of the year.

Michael Penix Jr. Fantasy Downside

On the downside, Michael Penix Jr. could do as expected, nothing. Though Cousins has had a history of injuries, he will likely stay the Falcons starter for the 2024 season. Penix was one of the most controversial draft picks in NFL history, leaving fans puzzled about the choice and the possible upside. The downside is that he could be on the bench for multiple seasons if Cousins returns to form.

Another downside for Penix is his history. He has also proven to be injury-prone and has yet to prove himself in the NFL. It is common for some talented college quarterbacks to have a solid playstyle and skillet, but they do not always translate to the professional level. Though it is uncertain how Penix will do when he has the chance, there are outside factors to look at before taking a chance on him in fantasy.

As far as this season goes, it may be one to forget for Penix. Superstars like Patrick Mahomes and Aaron Rodgers sat behind veteran quarterbacks to start their careers but then exploded onto the scene once they could play. Can Penix earn playing time and start producing this season, or is his time yet to come?

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Article originally written by Chance Burk