Most Shocking Pick of Round 1
Round 1 was not super crazy, with the exception of 1 insane decision. The draft did start by breaking a record for offensive players taken, which is a reflection of where the NFL is headed as a league in general.
With that being said, let’s dive right into the most shocking pick of the entire 1st round, Michael Penix Jr… The Falcons literally just signed Kirk Cousins for 4 years, $180 Million this offseason. You would expect them to be trying to get additional weapons or more help to surround him. Not drafting a backup QB, that if things go well, won’t even be the starter for 5 years. I am a big fan of draft your next franchise QB and let him grow and learn behind a veteran. However, Penix will be 28 years old by the time he is the starter if Cousins lasts his entire contract. Starting your playing career at 28 years old with a history of injuries does not seem like a very promising long term plan. This pick shocked the entire world, not just me:
Nothing but speculation, but this does not look like a great conversation going on after that questionabale pick….
It is like the Jordan Love and Aaron Rodgers situation all over again, except the Falcons just got Cousins, as opposed to Aaron Rodgers who was actively on his way OUT. If there is truth to this situation, I can’t imagine the next 4 years are going to be pleasant for Cousins. Definitely not the relationship and communication you want between your front office and your newly acquired QB who you’re paying $180 MILLION.
I truly believe this will go down as one of the worst picks of all time in the NFL draft. Only time will tell, but I will never understand this decision.