New England Patriots Host Michael Penix: Quarterback Option?

The New England Patriots are doing their NFL Draft “QB homework” by hosting Washington quarterback Michael Penix, Jr. on a Top-30 visit.

Jan 8, 2024; Houston, TX, USA; Washington Huskies quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (9) throws a pass. / Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

FOXBORO — As Day 1 of the NFL Draft draws closer, the New England Patriots continue to keep their options open at arguably the game’s most-prominent position. 

Though heavily-rumored to be selecting a quarterback with the No. 3 overall selection, the Pats may be adding a bit of spice to their proverbial “draft stew” by hosting Washington quarterback Michael Penix, Jr. for a top-30 visit on Tuesday. 

Penix, per NFL Network, had dinner with New England’s leadership on Monday night in Foxboro, and will visit Gillette Stadium on Tuesday. 

“New England continued to do all the QB homework,” Rapoport noted.

Mar 2, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Washington quarterback Michael Penix (QB08) during the 2024 NFL / Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

While it is highly improbable New England considers him with the No. 3 overall pick, he could be an option if the Pats package the pick to maximize their return on investment. The Heisman finalist threw for 4,903 yards, 36 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 2023 - en route to leading the Huskies to a berth in the National Championship game. 

Penix’s pre-draft showcase period has experienced its share of ebb and flow. During the National team’s first practice at February’s Senior Bowl, he turned in a handful of impressive throws —highlighted by a high-octane completion downfield to Michigan receiver [and potential Patriots draft prospect] Roman Wilson. Still, Penix largely failed to impress during his time at Mobile. The 6-2, 216-pound quarterback resurrected his draft status at the NFL Scouting Combine, where he ran a 4.45 40-time, while his hand measured in at 10.5 inches — a top-10 measurement in Combine history. 

After a stellar throwing performance during his pro day workouts, Penix’s name is once again rising in the national rankings. Still, there are concerns about his ability to adapt to the pro level. During the second half of his 2023 campaign, he had some issues with accuracy and his footwork — occasionally leading to some simple missed connections with his receivers

Though a minor shoulder injury suffered last season was likely a factor in his late-year regression, Penix will need to show that he is both healthy and fundamentally prepared for the NFL. In fact, the biggest question mark relating the talented quarterback might be his durability. As a young college prospect at Indiana, he suffered two season-ending ACL tears. Fortunately, the former Washington standout took a major step forward during his Combine evaluations by obtaining medical clearance on his prior injuries. 

With the Patriots, Penix would more than adequately fill their need for a pure passing quarterback. Though he is at his best when directing a vertical offense, he possesses enough arm talent and on-field savvy to succeed in both pocket passing and mobile situations. Penix may also be a strong fit within coordinator Alex Van Pelt’s offense, which is predicated on a strong run game to open play-action deep passes. 

In addition to Penix, New England has also hosted UNC’s Drake Maye, LSU’s Jayden Daniels and Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy for top-30 visits — all of which are quarterback prospects expected to be in play for the Pats with at No. 3 overall.