Is Michael Penix Jr. ready for the NFL? Well, after his Sugar Bowl performance for the Washington Huskies against the Texas Longhorns on Monday, fans believe that he is.
Penix was incredible for the Huskies in a late-night game that wasn’t decided until the final play. The 2023 Heisman Trophy finalist was calm and collected all game long, perfectly analyzing and surveying the field in every pass and run to put the team in the best position to score.
The 23-year-old quarterback never let the gravity of the moment get to him, as proven with the way he played right from the start. In fact, just on the fourth play, he connected with wide receiver Ja’Lynn Polk for a 77-yard gain that brought them to their two-yard line.
Penix finished with 430 yards and two touchdowns on 29-of-38 pass completion without an interception. He also rushed three times, garnering 31 yards in the process–which is the best yards per carry average on the team.
The Huskies quarterback certainly showed maturity beyond his age. His game management and arm strength is also already on a pro level, leading many to believe he is ready for the NFL.
Washington Huskies QB Michael Penix Jr. Ready for the NFL
Accuracy and ability to deliver in high-pressure moments have been the common knocks on Michael Penix Jr.’s game. Nonetheless, he is certainly proving that those are nothing but measly concerns considering how much he has worked on those areas.
And after another Heisman-caliber season, Penix definitely looks ready for the NFL. That is also the general consensus from fans following his performance against the Texas Longhorns.
“NFL decision-makers who haven’t seen Michael Penix Jr. throw in-person yet will be blown away in Mobile. As good as he looks on TV and tape, it’s different when you’re down on the field with him,” former NFL scout JIm Nagy wrote.
“If I’m a NFL GM I’m taking Michael Penix Jr in the first round. Has shown leadership, arm talent, and proven ability to deal with adversity. He is going to have to prove to me he is not a leader of a franchise!!!” NFL Draft Analyst Keith Sanchez of The Draft Network added.
A fan added, “PREDICTION: Michael Penix Jr will be the Patrick Mahomes of the 2024 NFL draft. Bookmark it for receipts.”
Considering that Penix is just the first college QB since Patrick Mahomes (with Texas Tech in 2015 and 2016) to throw for more than 4500 yards in back-to-back years, that prediction might not be too far off.
“Michael Penix, you did awesome. The coaching was off but you are definitely a first round draft pick. Can’t wait to watch you in the NFL next year,” another supporter furthered.
Penix is projected to be a mid-to-late first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. But don’t be surprised if he climbs the draft boards further.
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