2024 NFL Draft: Coaches Back Michael Penix Jr. Over J.J. McCarthy and Other QB Prospects Besides Caleb Williams

Washington QB Michael Penix Jr. recently made the headlines as a “natural fit” for the Las Vegas Raiders, per ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. With the Raiders holding the No. 13 and No. 44 picks, he’s considered a potential prospect to land in Las Vegas. He reportedly met with the Raiders on Wednesday during his Top 30 visit. 

Before Albert Breer’s latest disclosure, some rumors of Michael Penix Jr. were already “getting first-round consideration.” As Fowler said, “I’ve talked to multiple teams who say they do not expect him to be there where they pick in the early-to-mid second round.” The 23-year-old may have cast doubts in people’s minds with his injury history, but the latest turn of events seems to have turned things in his favor. 

Could Michael Penix Jr. be a late riser in the 2024 NFL Draft?

After being considered a potential late pick in the first 10 picks in the 2024 NFL Draft, Michael Penix Jr. is now rumored to have his draft stocks drastically raised. According to a report by JPAFootball per @AlbertBreer, “Some people in the league circles have Michael Penix Jr ahead of the top QBs besides Caleb Williams.”

According to speculations, the top QBs in this year’s draft after potential No. 1 prospect Caleb Williams are Drake Maye, Jayden Daniels, and JJ McCarthy. Albert Breer disclosed this information on X after making calls, saying, “Coaches seem to be higher than scouts on Washington QB Michael Penix, in general.” Penix Jr. has already met with several teams, including the Raiders, Denver Broncos, Minnesota Vikings, and Atlanta Falcons, and is set to meet the Washington Commanders in the next week or two, as Fowler reports. 

The hype around Michael Penix Jr.

While Michael Penix Jr. is an incredible player, he may have marred his career in Indiana, where he suffered multiple injuries. In his four seasons at Indiana, he endured two right knee ACL tears and shoulder injuries on both sides. However, he drastically improved when transferring to Washington in 2022 to become a Heisman finalist. But it wasn’t until his pro day that the type around him began to build.

READ MORE: 2024 NFL Draft Buzz: As Jayden Daniels Sidesteps and J.J McCarthy Remains Indifferent, Vikings’ Quarterback Quest Ends With Michael Penix Jr.

Penix Jr. shone at his pro day and displayed no inconvenience from his former injuries. He passed the medical exams at the NFL Combine and has since won the favor of NFL insiders, including Daniel Jeremiah, who released a mock draft pick with Penix Jr. as a first-round pick. He finished last season with 4,903 passing yards, showcasing his field abilities. It’ll be interesting to see how things unfold in about two weeks.

READ MORE: 2024 NFL Draft: Caleb Williams and Bears Take Next Step Towards Potential Union on April 25th