Michael Penix Jr.

The Falcons drew heavy criticism by selecting Penix with the No. 8 pick in the draft after signing Kirk Cousins to a lucrative four-year contract in the offseason. Penix has no clear path to playing time in 2024, although it should be noted that Cousins is coming off a torn Achilles and is entering his age-36 season. Penix has a strong, accurate arm and is good at sack avoidance, having taken just 16 sacks over his last two college season. Penix has a worrisome injury history, however. He's torn his ACL twice and has also endured shoulder issues. Penix won't be draftable in most redraft leagues, though he'd become a popular waiver-wire addition if Cousins were to go down.

The Falcons and Michael Penix Jr. have agreed to terms on his rookie contract.

Fantasy Impact

Penix gets a four-year deal worth $22.88M. His signing bonus is $13.46M. He'll open the season backing up Kirk Cousins, assuming the veteran is healthy as he comes off a torn Achilles.