Michael Penix Jr. says he and Kirk Cousins ​​had a ‘really good conversation’ after surprise trade from Atlanta Falcons

Atlanta Falcons draft pick Michael Penix Jr. said he had a “really good conversation” with fellow quarterback and new teammate Kirk Cousins ​​after his surprise selection on Thursday.

The Falcons shocked the NFL world by selecting Penix Jr. with the No. 8 pick, a move that raised eyebrows because Cousins, 36, signed a four-year, $180 million contract with Atlanta in March for becoming the franchise’s new starting quarterback. .

Given the Falcons’ defensive needs, adding a quarterback to the roster was a move few saw coming. Even Cousins’ agent, Mike McCartney, told NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo that the pick “was a big surprise” to his client’s camp.

Speaking to reporters Friday, Penix Jr. said he spoke to Cousins ​​Thursday evening.

“He held out his hand,” the 23-year-old said. “We had a very good conversation…”

“I’m going to keep it between him and me for now, but it was definitely a good conversation and I’m super excited to work with him and he said he was the same for me,” he added.

“I’m very lucky to be able to be in a room with him, to be able to work with him and learn from him. And support him in the pursuit of his career.

Penix Jr. is coming off two exceptional seasons with Washington. Last year, he was the first FBS player to pass for more than 4,500 yards in consecutive seasons since Patrick Mahomes in 2015-16.

Speaking to the media after the first round, Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot and head coach Raheem Morris emphasized that Cousins ​​was their starting quarterback.

They also expressed their excitement about being able to build the future with Penix Jr.

Speaking about being part of a succession plan, Penix Jr. said, “The most important thing is to be myself. I don’t feel like I have to change for anyone or anything.

“But I just have to be myself and go at it with confidence and an opportunistic mindset. Mindset: Wanting to learn, wanting to work and get to know the guys, get to know the system.

CNN’s Ben Morse contributed reporting.

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