With the conclusion of the 2023 NFL regular season and the upcoming 2024 scouting combine, it is time to analyze the 2024 draft prospects with a more discerning eye. While more comprehensive scouting reports will be available during the pre-draft process, here is a brief evaluation of Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr.
During his final college season, Penix showcased his skills in offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb’s system. He completed 364 of 556 passes for 4,906 yards, 36 touchdowns, 11 interceptions, and achieved a passer rating of 106.7. Notably, Penix excelled as the NCAA’s leading deep passer in the 2023 season, successfully completing 51 of 117 passes of 20 or more air yards. This resulted in 16 touchdowns, seven interceptions, and a passer rating of 105.1.
However, Penix’s performance under pressure raises concerns. When faced with pressure, he completed only 59 of 141 passes for 1,072 yards, six touchdowns, five interceptions, and a passer rating of 68.0. This decline in efficiency when pressured is a significant aspect to consider when evaluating Penix as a prospect. Additionally, his history of season-ending injuries, including two ACL tears in the same knee during his time at Indiana, is another factor that may give evaluators pause.
Another notable moment that could impact Penix’s evaluation is his performance in Washington’s 34-13 loss to Michigan in the CFP National Championship. Against a defense that closely resembles an NFL scheme, Penix completed 27 of 51 passes for 25 yards, one touchdown, two interceptions, and achieved a passer rating of 63.0.
Ultimately, Penix’s medical evaluation during the combine will play a crucial role in determining his draft grade. If his medicals come back clean, he could potentially be considered a mid- to late first-round prospect.
PLUSES:
– Impressive volume of deep passes attempted, with 117 throws of 20 or more air yards last season.
– Displays the ability to throw accurately into tight windows at all levels of the field.
– Exhibits versatility in changing the speed and trajectory of his throws.
– Possesses a smooth delivery, albeit with a slightly elongated motion.
MINUSES:
– Reacts inconsistently to pressure, leading to a decline in accuracy when forced off his spot.
– Occasionally rushes his decision-making process and must avoid playing in a frenetic manner.
– Showcased several poor throws against Michigan, which represents the closest approximation to an NFL defense he has faced.
– The significance of his medical evaluation at the combine cannot be overstated, considering his history of injuries at Indiana, despite playing through two seasons at Washington.
[Embed tweet from Doug Farrar with the same evaluation of Michael Penix Jr.]
According to the Source touchdownwire.usatoday.com