Social media stunned after Falcons pick QB Michael Penix Jr. at No. 8 overall – NBC New York

 

Last month, Atlanta signed veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract. Then, with the No. 8 overall pick in Thursday’s draft, the Falcons selected Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr.

Penix led the Huskies to the national championship game last season, but there were plenty of questions entering the draft. He will turn 24 next month, older than all of the other quarterback prospects at the top of the draft. Additionally, he suffered two torn ACLs during his six-year collegiate career.

Not only that, but they did so with 21-year-old quarterback J.J. McCarthy still on the board. The Michigan signal caller was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings two picks later at No. 10 overall.

To make matters even more puzzling, the Falcons reportedly didn’t tell Cousins about their plans until a decision was made — which left the veteran “a bit stunned.”

The Falcons called Kirk Cousins when they were on the clock to let him know. From what I learned, Cousins understood a QB would be considered but he did not believe his successor would be taken in the first round. I’m told he’s a bit stunned.

As we all sit in shock over the Atlanta pick, a source tells me Kirk Cousins just as “shocked” and “disappointed” Never said anything to him or his reps about a QB in 1st round despite suggesting they would. Still “it’s a business”

Predictably, social media was shocker with the first real surprise of the 2024 draft. Here are some of the best responses:

That’s shocking. Even if you want to go QB, you know you’re drafting a guy who won’t start right away because of Kirk. Why wouldn’t you take the 21 year old who is perfect to back up for a year in JJ

Michael Penix Jr. seeing the Falcons just drafted him pic.twitter.com/5gxp1G7a66

Taking Michael Penix Jr. is absolutely insane lmao. I love the draft. He’ll be 27 by the time he’s on the field.