The latest 2024 NFL mock draft from Sports Illustrated has the Falcons taking Michael Penix Jr.

Is Michael Penix Jr. a top-10 pick at the 2024 NFL Draft?

Michael Penix Jr. is one of the more intriguing names in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Will the Washington QB be a first-rounder? Does that mean there will be a half-dozen QBs taken on the first night?

In our latest mock draft from Christian D’Andrea, he had Penix to the Pittsburgh Steelers at No. 23. And in the latest Sports Illustrated mock draft, Luke Easterling has the Atlanta Falcons taking the Washington star at No. 8, which makes a lot of sense for a franchise that’s in desperate need for its quarterback of the future. Also, Caleb Williams, Drake Maye and Jaden Daniels are all off the board at this point in the mock.

Here’s the reasoning:

Penix gutted through a disappointing performance in the national title game, but he’s still one of the best pure passers in this draft. His age (he’ll be a 24-year-old rookie) and injury history will scare away some teams, but the Falcons can’t afford to wait until Day 2 for a new QB.

Check out Christian D’Andrea’s latest NFL mock draft, along with the first 24 picks of the NFL Draft order that are locked in.