Seahawks might need to re-think draft approach after this QB's ridiculous pro day

After trading for quarterback Sam Howell this offseason, the Seattle Seahawks seemingly have no need to take a quarterback in the 2024 NFL draft. This is not just in the first round, but possibly at any point in the draft. Most teams only keep two quarterbacks on the active roster and with Geno Smith and Howell, Seattle appears to have their two QBs.

Taking a quarterback even in the sixth round and then watching that QB do well in training camp or in the preseason is probably going to get the notice of not only Seattle's coaches but other coaching staffs around the league. If Seattle keeps Smith and Howell that means the team would likely release the recently drafted QB and hopes no one picks him up and Seattle can add him back to the practice squad.

Sure, Seattle could keep a third QB on the roster but that takes away a roster spot from a position of greater need and could hurt the Seahawks' depth. But after watching Michael Penix, Jr. at his pro day on Thursday, general manager John Schneider might be re-thinking how he wants to approach the 2024 draft, specifically as it relates to Penix and the quarterback position.

Michael Penix, Jr. should be moving up the Seattle Seahawks' draft board

There was no doubt as to Penix's ability to throw the ball. His arm strength, velocity when passing to any part of the field, and accuracy were without doubt. All those aspects of Penix's game are NFL-ready.

While there will be lingering doubts about Penix because of his injury history, mostly before he transferred from Indiana to Washington, any concerns about his raw athleticism are gone after his performance at the Huskies' pro day. Penix was timed between 4.56 and 4.59 in his 40 run, based on most scouts' handheld timers. At least one had him timed at 4.46. All those times are excellent, however, and plenty fast for an NFL quarterback.

Penix also measured at 36.5 inches in his vertical jump. So if he is ever playing a game that suddenly becomes a basketball game, he should be fine there, too. While that sounds ridiculous, if the NFL thinks that will make them money they will make it happen.

Penix would also have the easiest transition from college to the NFL of almost any quarterback ever. His offensive coordinator at Washington was Ryan Grubb who is now the new OC for the Seahawks. OC and QB would completely understand what each needs and what their strengths and weaknesses are.

Still, Seattle taking a quarterback in the first round is iffy. The team has bigger needs such as the interior of the offensive line. But after this week, Penix might be much higher on Seattle's draft board.

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