2024 NFL Draft rumors: Commanders wavering on Jayden Daniels, host Michael Penix Jr. after impressive Pro Day

Despite being awarded the Heisman Trophy, Jayden Daniels faced competition from other quarterbacks such as Michael Penix Jr. and Bo Nix. Interestingly, Penix Jr. has attracted the attention of several teams following his Pro Day at Washington, despite initial expectations that Daniels would be the top draft pick.

According to Jordan Schultz, an NFL Insider for Bleacher Report, the quarterback held a meeting with several NFL teams on Monday afternoon following his Pro Day last week. He will also be meeting with the Washington Commanders.

The Washington Commanders have been heavily rumored to be fully committed to selecting Jayden Daniels with the second overall pick, making this development quite intriguing.

Analyzing Michael Penix Jr.’s Potential NFL Draft Placement

With the 2024 NFL Draft quickly approaching, speculation about potential draftees is on the rise. Among the quarterbacks, there has been much talk about Michael Penix Jr. and how his draft position has changed since the end of the 2023 College Football season.

According to NFL Draft analyst Tony Pauline, his recent mock draft includes predictions for the first 200 selections. In Pauline’s projection, quarterback Penix is ranked as the 42nd overall pick, indicating a likely selection in the early to mid-rounds of the second round on Day 2. This suggests that Pauline views Penix as a strong candidate for a team in need of a quarterback from Washington.

The Houston Texans currently hold the 42nd pick, which they acquired from the Minnesota Vikings.

Top 30 Visits for Michael Penix Jr.

The National Football League permits teams to conduct up to 30 pre-draft visits with prospective players, known as “top 30 visits.”These visits are generally utilized by NFL teams to gain further insight on players they are considering and to address any inquiries they may have.

Following his Pro Day, Michael Penix Jr. dined with the New York Giants before the team’s coaching staff chose to forgo UNC’s Drake Maye’s Pro Day in order to observe Penix Jr. The day after, he participated in a private workout with the Minnesota Vikings, who were seeking a new starting quarterback following Kirk Cousins’ departure.

The 6’3″quarterback has recently visited with the Pittsburgh Steelers, who have made additions to their quarterback room by acquiring Russell Wilson and Justin Fields this offseason. He is also expected to have upcoming visits with the Denver Broncos, Washington Commanders, Las Vegas Raiders, and Atlanta Falcons as part of the Top 30 visits.