NFL Draft Rumors: Insiders Rank Michael Penix Jr. Among Top 3 QBs Amid Raiders Buzz | News, Scores, Highlights, Stats, and Rumors
Aria Murphy
Published Mar 24, 2026
Scouts seem to be torn when it comes to the draft projection of Washington star quarterback Michael Penix Jr., but it sounds like some believe that he's among the top signal-callers in the 2024 class.
In his latest mock draft, The Athletic's Ben Standig predicted that the Las Vegas Raiders would trade back into the first round to select Penix with the 29th pick. Standig explained his projection by noting how some around the NFL have been impressed with Penix's skills, though he noted that he still has some detractors.
"From the polish in the pocket, striking on deep throws and deftly evading sacks, two league sources rank the southpaw among the top three quarterback prospects," Standig stated. "Another scout slotted the Heisman runner-up sixth due to mobility concerns, inconsistency with throws and his injury history."
NFL @NFLMichael Penix Jr. is rising up <a href="">#NFLDraft</a> boards. Where will he be taken? 👀📈<br><br>(via <a href="">@UW_Football</a>) <a href="">
B/R's NFL Scouting Department ranked Penix as the No. 5 quarterback in its latest big board and also predicted he would be drafted by the Raiders in the second round of the latest mock draft, so it appears that Las Vegas would be an ideal situation for the 23-year-old.
The Raiders would be able to give Penix time to develop behind veteran quarterback Gardner Minshew, who was signed to a two-year deal earlier this offseason.
