On First Take, Stephen A. Smith, Marcus “Swagu” Spears and Ryan Clark join Molly Qerim to talk through the Atlanta Falcons surprising in the 2024 NFL Draft by choosing Michael Penix Jr., despite already signing Kirk Cousins.
Certainly, let’s delve deeper into each point with specific examples:
Stephen A.’s Strong Emotions: He opens the discussion with a clear expression of frustration and disgust over the conversation regarding Michael Penix Jr.’s drafting by the Falcons. This sentiment is evident in his tone and choice of words, reflecting his annoyance at what he perceives as unnecessary criticism.
Example: “Let me be very, very clear: I’m disgusted with this conversation already… What are we talking about here? Shut the hell up.”
Critique of Kirk Cousins’ Lack of Consultation: Stephen A. questions why Kirk Cousins, with his substantial $100 million contract, would need to be consulted before the Falcons made their draft pick.
Example: “You got a $100 million, shut the hell up. His agent talking, what are we talking about here?”
Highlighting Cousins’ Poor Playoff Record: Despite acknowledging Cousins’ talent, Stephen A. emphasizes his lack of success in the playoffs, suggesting that his performance doesn’t justify his hefty contract.
Example: “He got $180 million contract with a $100 million guaranteed… and got one playoff victory in his career. That’s less than Dak Prescott.”
Discussion of Penix Jr.’s Potential: Stephen A. discusses Michael Penix Jr.’s strengths as a quarterback, focusing on his skills and potential despite his injury history.
Example: “We talk about his accuracy, we talk about his pocket presence, we talk about the fact that this brother can fling the football.”
Importance of Securing a Quarterback: Stephen A. argues that securing a talented quarterback like Penix Jr. is crucial for the Falcons, especially given Cousins’ recent ACL injury.
Example: “You need a quarterback… If this brother can play the quarterback position and you’re talking about the future, and I already got Ben Robinson and I already got pits, I’m looking at this like, ‘What are we talking about here?'”
RC’s Initial Shock and Later Understanding: RC expresses initial shock over the draft pick but later sees the rationale behind planning for the future with a talented quarterback like Penix Jr.
Example: “RC expresses initial shock over the draft pick but later sees the rationale behind planning for the future with a talented quarterback like Penix Jr.”
Discussion on Team Culture and Fan Expectations: The conversation touches on the potential impact on team culture and fan expectations, particularly if Cousins fails to perform up to expectations.
Example: “If Kurt Cousins doesn’t perform well, it could be a problem… It’s all about how they handle it.”
Highlighting the Falcons’ Recent Performance: Stephen A. points out the Falcons’ recent lackluster seasons and suggests that Cousins has no excuses for underperformance given the talent around him.
Example: “Five of the last six years, they’ve won seven games… Cousins doesn’t really have excuses.”
Comparison to Russell Wilson’s Draft Situation: The discussion compares Penix Jr.’s draft situation to that of Russell Wilson, highlighting how a talented quarterback can elevate a team’s performance despite initial investments in other players.
Example: “Russell Wilson was drafted third round… Look what it did.”
Overall Rationale Behind the Falcons’ Draft Choice: The expanded discussion delves into the rationale behind the Falcons’ draft choice, considering various factors such as team needs, future planning, and player potential.
Example: “Ultimately, on a night’s sleep, it don’t look as bad… You drafted your succession plan.”