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The Atlanta Falcons draft QB Michael Penix Jr. despite signing Kirk Cousins,

mirroring the Packers' 2020 strategy with Aaron Rodgers and Jordan Love.

The Atlanta Falcons raised eyebrows during the 2024 NFL Draft by selecting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. in the first round, despite already having veteran Kirk Cousins under center. The move echoes the "Green Bay Model" of 2020, where the Packers drafted Jordan Love as Aaron Rodgers' eventual successor.

Head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot emphasized that Cousins remains the team's starting quarterback, but view Penix Jr. as a long-term investment. This strategy mirrors the Packers' approach with Rodgers and Love, which ultimately proved successful when Love seamlessly transitioned into the starting role after Rodgers' departure.

"Kirk Cousins is our quarterback," Fontenot stated firmly. "We're very excited about Kirk, very excited about this team. (With) Michael Penix, we're talking about the future."

The Falcons hope Penix Jr. will develop under Cousins' guidance, similar to how Love learned from Rodgers. This mentorship model allows the young quarterback to learn the ropes and prepare for his eventual opportunity, whether in Atlanta or elsewhere.

"You're talking about a guy that's had a lot of success in the National Football League (in Cousins), and you're talking about a young man coming into the league (in Penix)," Morris explained. "(Penix) is going to be hungry. He's going to be eager to learn."

The timing of Cousins' contract and Penix Jr.'s rookie deal aligns perfectly, allowing the Falcons to make a decision on their future quarterback when both contracts expire. For now, the focus remains on the present with Cousins leading the charge, while Penix Jr. prepares for his future role.