Michael Penix Jr., despite his injury history could be an early first rounder. Should the Raiders draft him?
2024 Raiders Draft Prospect
Name: Michael Penix, Jr
Position: Quarterback
Schools: Indiana/Washington
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 215 pounds
Accuracy/Arm Strength
During his six years in college, this accuracy started off as a glaring flaw, but through hard work, film stufy and better offensive personnel. Penix features the most important part of being accurate: placement. At every level of throw, the prospect finds the target in stride with enough air under the throw to continue running. Similarly, Penix’s arm strength, from the left side generates a catchable ball with above-average velocity in tight spots and deep patterns, even under a rush. At the next level, Penix needs to be cognizant of much faster linebackers in coverage.
Pocket Presence/ Decision Making
From the time you press play, Penix’s ability to rapidly process what he sees and get the ball out flashes across the screen. The speed of his eyes and brain. Despite sounding trite, the game really slowed down for Penix. Whether it was the change of scenery or not, he not only sees the play for what exists but accurately predicts what will occur. That is to say, his timing of certain routes from dropback appears crisp. Meanwhile, facing the rush, the UW product will adjust the pocket by effortlessly climbing the ladder or sliding. Wide rushing edges will see themselves miss Penix because of this.
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Intangibles/Red Flags
Penix endured four seasons and twenty-one games at Indiana University. Behind a suspect offensive line and brutal position players, he took his lumps. Watching blitzers get home cleaner than an Easter suit never deterred Penix. He stands in the pocket and sees the play through. On film, the UW standout never appears to flinch or wince when surrounded. For all of Penix’s positives, one tremendous negative surfaces. Injuries curtailed parts of four seasons, including two separate ACL injuries. Teams need to do their research heavily into medical history.
Raiders Fit
As of this writing, the Raiders emerged from yet another embarrassing offensive performance. With the clock loudly ticking on Davante Adams, Las Vegas needs a quarterback to step in the first week and be ready to play. Granted, every rookie suffers through hiccups. Yet, the mental toughness aspect cannot be underrated. Penix picked himself up on multiple occasions from injuries that ended careers for so many others. Now, in all honesty, the Raiders need to do their due diligence with regard to research. If they invest in a first-round selection in Penix, he needs to become the player to lead the franchise. Now, on the field, you will not find another quarterback that wants to sling more. The Raiders need a quarterback, Penix is one of them. On paper, he’s the second-best quarterback in the 2024 draft.