Who Should I Start? Baker Mayfield or Michael Penix Jr.

Wednesday, June 11, 4:32 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield noted on Tuesday via the team's official transcript that the new offense is focusing on increasing the number of downfield shots during minicamp. "[We're] working on that, being able to connect on the chemistry we're trying to build right now," noted the Oklahoma product. "This is the time of year we're working on it. Obviously, you would love to have more down-the-field shots, but any completion is a good one." Mayfield's gripe with the offense from 2024 was that it relied heavily on YAC, and it sounds like they're trying to go away from that in 2025. It's worth noting that they weren't very efficient on deep balls last season, but they're certainly equipped to do so with their offensive skill players. More explosiveness would suit the offense well, but only time will tell if that's a suitable game plan for new offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard. NFL defenses have done well in recent seasons in limiting explosive plays.

Monday, June 2, 11:43 PM

The Atlanta Falcons are completely focused on developing former first-round quarterback Michael Penix Jr., according to SI.com's Albert Breer. Last year, the Falcons were locked into having veteran Kirk Cousins under center, but now they are putting their offense together in a way that will best fit Penix. The 25-year-old second-year signal-caller has proven to be an even faster learner than was expected when he was drafted. He has been working to get his footwork synced up, his base widened and his eyes upfield, while coaches also want Penix working to create ways to take advantage of his high-end arm talent. Atlanta added slow-developing, play-action concepts to take advantage of Penix's ability to create explosive plays down the field, and they've also expanded their perimeter passing game. The coaches and players are behind Penix, who will be an attractive QB2 with upside in superflex leagues in 2025.