Who Should I Start? Michael Penix Jr. or Will Levis

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.

Thursday, June 26, 3:02 PM

Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis finds himself as the backup quarterback to No. 1 overall pick Cam Ward, just one season after he was looking to establish himself as the franchise QB of the future. Levis showed a few flashes of upside in his 21 game appearances since being selected in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft out of Kentucky, but overall, it hasn't been good enough. Levis has completed 61% of his passes for 3,899 yards, 21 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions en route to a 5-16 record as a starter. Still, Levis continues to have a positive attitude and outlook heading into 2025. "Will has been great with how he's handled this kind of new situation," offensive coordinator Nick Holz said. "Attitude-wise, he's a good dude and a good teammate. I give him a lot of credit for that because when you draft another quarterback with the No. 1 pick, it's not an easy situation." The latest rumors suggest the team is willing to keep Levis on the roster, but that could be a negotiating tactic to eventually trade him at the end of training camp. While his accuracy and decision-making have drawn plenty of criticism, he has top-tier arm talent and could use a fresh start.