NFL GM: Michael Penix Jr. is 'Best-Kept Secret' in 2024 Draft Amid Raiders Rumors

Some NFL executives believe quarterback prospect Michael Penix Jr. could be a steal in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported that while Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye and J.J. McCarthy appear to be the consensus top quarterbacks heading into the first-round, Penix is a name to watch and his stock is rising.

"Though analysts and reporters have not mentioned his name at high volume over the last month, one GM told me, "He's the best-kept secret in this draft," Russini wrote.

Penix's 2023 collegiate season was one for the ages. He threw for 4,903 yards and 36 touchdowns with 11 interceptions. This production helped lead Washington to a 14-1 record and an appearance in the CFP National Championship.

While this production is impressive, the knock on Penix comes from his age and injury history. He will enter his rookie season at 24 years old and has multiple ACL injuries in his background. This has resulted in him falling down some lists of the top prospects.

He is listed as the No. 87 overall prospect and the seventh quarterback in the draft by the B/R Scouting Department. Still, his ceiling could be huge, and Russini's report shows that some team's may be willing to overlook the risk that exists with Penix.

The first round of the 2024 NFL Draft is set to begin Thursday at 8 p.m. ET.