Picking a QB instead of a playmaker at no. 8 after throwing out a huge FA contract is a curveball. But Cousins shouldn’t be surprised at a 1st round QB. He’s 36 years old recovering from an Achilles injury and most of his 90M guaranteed money is paid in the 1st two years. His deal is designed for the Falcons to have a short term playoff run with him while they get his last best years. He probably won’t be playing at a high level anymore at 38 years old in 2026. They had to prepare accordingly while they had the opportunity with the QB that they wanted.
Penix wouldn’t have made it past the Vikings 2nd 1st rounder at #23. It’s possible that the Vikings wanted him over JJ at 11th. Broncos, Seahawks, and Rams picks were in between too. He never would’ve made it to the 2nd round.