Michael Penix Jr. concluded an impressive college career at the University of Washington, where he amassed 9,544 passing yards and 67 touchdowns, leading the Huskies to a remarkable 25-3 record, a Pac-12 championship, and a national title game appearance in 2023. Drafted eighth overall by the Atlanta Falcons in 2024, Penix started his rookie season as a backup to Kirk Cousins before seizing the starting role in Week 16.

In three games, he showcased notable potential, throwing for 645 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions. While the Falcons did not make the playoffs, Penix's talent and unique personality, particularly his signature durag, have made him a player to watch. He explained that wearing the durag has become part of his identity, refusing to reveal what lies beneath it, enhancing his enigmatic persona on and off the field.