Michael Penix Jr. QB Washington: Scouting Report

Height: 6’3

Weight: 215

Overall

Michael Penix Jr. is a dynamic pocket passer in Washington’s pro-style offense. He began his career at the University of Indiana where over 4 seasons he played in 20 games starting 17 of them. During his time with the Hoosier he suffered 4 consecutive season ending injuries including 2 ACL tears. He then transferred to Washington where he reunited with Kalen DeBoer (his QB coach/OC while at Indiana) and he played in and started all 28 games during his 2 seasons. He had excellent production these past 2 seasons culminating in an appearance in the National Championship game this past year. His injury history is a major concern but his film shows that he is capable of playing at the next level.

Pass Game

In the pass game, Penix played a majority of his snaps in shotgun but has plenty of experience playing under center which will be very valuable to begin his pro career. He has good footwork and does a good job of staying square when maneuvering the pocket. When he is under pressure though, his footwork gets very sloppy resulting in off-balanced throughs that lead to bad turnovers on film. He also tries to force it into tight windows down the field when under duress again leading to interceptions. He has a quick release on short passes but has slightly elongated throwing motion when throwing deep down the field but that should not be a major issue moving forward. He has good vision and shows the ability to look off safeties to create space on the backside routes. He does a good job of checking down to the running back when nothing is open as well. He has excellent velocity on his throws allowing him to complete passes into very tight windows including intermediate throws outside the numbers. He is very accurate on short and intermediate throws and has the arm strength to make big plays deep down the field. He does not put a lot of touch on his throws but he is still very good at fitting the ball over linebackers and underneath safeties in the middle of the field. When under pressure he has the athleticism to escape the pocket and find open space but his accuracy is very inconsistent when throwing on the run. At times he will make tough throws from different arm angles and off-balance but he is not consistent enough to thrive outside of the pocket.

Run Game

In the run game, Penix was occasionally used on designed runs and he showed the speed and elusiveness to make plays with his legs but with his injury history it is not optimal for him to be used as a runner often. His athleticism is best used to scramble in the pass game and gain extra yardage outside the pocket.

Last Word

Penix has the arm talent and accuracy to be a very good “win-with” quarterback. He had the luxury of playing behind a dominant offensive line and with highly talented skill players during his time at Washington and he will likely need that level of supporting cast to succeed at the next level. His inconsistencies with his footwork and decision-making under pressure will need to be addressed before he can be a consistent starter. His injury history is a big concern as well but when he is on the field he shows the ability to play at a high-level.

One-Liner: Michael Penix Jr. has the arm talent and accuracy to be a reliable starter but his struggles against the rush and his injury history will prevent from truly becoming a “win because of” quarterback.

Grade: 6.5 (Lower End Starting Quarterback)

Games Watched: 2023 - Michigan, Washington State, Oregon, USC

Team Fits: Pittsburgh Steelers, Seattle Seahawks, Atlanta Falcons