Atlanta Falcons Surprise NFL Draft Fans by Selecting Michael Penix Jr., Despite Kirk Cousins Contract

In a surprising move during the 2024 NFL Draft, the Atlanta Falcons selected quarterback Michael Penix Jr., eighth overall, just weeks after signing Kirk Cousins to an expensive contract worth $180 million earlier in free agency. This selection caught even Falcons’ tight end Kyle Pitts off guard as he learned of it during a live stream with Bleacher Report alongside Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons. While the panel was taken aback, Pitts had nothing but positive things to say about Penix Jr., explaining that learning from Cousins would be an excellent opportunity for him. However, despite his enthusiasm, Pitts admitted he did expect the Falcons to draft a defensive player instead of another quarterback. Parsons also expressed shock at this unforeseen decision. It is noteworthy that just hours earlier, J.J McCarthy was selected by the Minnesota Vikings after they traded with the New York Jets for the 10th overall pick, which initially seemed like a possible choice for Atlanta’s defense. As expected, Cousins reportedly found out about Penix Jr.’s selection while on draft night itself and it has caused some confusion within his camp as he had anticipated that Falcons would be making selections aimed at enhancing the team this year instead of opting to select a potential replacement for him in future. The first two years of Cousins’ four-year contract are fully guaranteed, leaving open possibilities about how long he will stay with Atlanta before potentially parting ways if needed.