Falcons' Penix Pick: A Smart Move for Long-Term Success, Says Dilfer

Despite initial criticism, Super Bowl winner Trent Dilfer defends the Atlanta Falcons' decision to select quarterback Michael Penix Jr. in the first round, citing a potential parallel to the Packers' three-quarterback model.

In a move that sent shockwaves through the NFL community, the Atlanta Falcons defied expectations by selecting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. out of Washington with the eighth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. The Falcons' decision raised eyebrows, considering their recent investment in veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins. However, Super Bowl-winning quarterback Trent Dilfer believes the move is a strategic one with long-term benefits.

Dilfer drew parallels between the Falcons' situation and the Green Bay Packers' successful quarterback succession plan, which saw Brett Favre mentor Aaron Rodgers, who in turn groomed Jordan Love. "The Falcons are looking three, four, five, six, seven years down the line here," Dilfer said. "They're looking to become Super Bowl contenders for a decade, not just change their franchise now."

While Penix is expected to back up Cousins for the foreseeable future, Dilfer believes Cousins' experience and leadership will be invaluable to Penix's development. "Kirk Cousins is going to play as good of football he can play for as long as his body allows him to play," Dilfer stated. "And while he does that, you will not find a better human to help Michael Penix grow as a person, as a player."

Dilfer acknowledged Penix's exceptional talent but also identified areas where he needs to refine his game. "Michael is a guy that is wildly talented, wildly successful, but does not play the game with a high level of discipline," Dilfer said. "He doesn't play it with a structure, he's more of a gunslinger."

Dilfer believes Cousins' structured approach to the game will provide Penix with a blueprint for becoming a more mature quarterback. "Kirk Cousins plays the game with an exactness to his game," Dilfer said. "My career would have been totally different if I would've sat there and played with an expert in his craft."

The Athletic reported that Cousins initially expressed surprise at the Falcons' decision to draft a quarterback in the first round, but he has since voiced his support for Penix. "I think it was a brilliant pick," Dilfer said.

It is worth noting that the Falcons drafted Penix while Cousins recovers from a torn Achilles, while Penix himself has a history of injuries. However, Penix's impressive performance in leading Washington to a national championship appearance last season suggests he can overcome these challenges.

The Falcons' selection of Penix is a bold move that could reshape the franchise's future. With guidance from Cousins and a long-term vision in place, the Falcons may have found their quarterback of the future.