Fans criticize Brian Finneran over his critique of Michael Penix Jr
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 12, 2026, 9:06 AM
Last updated Sep 12, 2026
Former Falcons wide receiver Brian Finneran faced backlash from NFL fans after labeling Michael Penix Jr. the worst draft pick in league history during a radio appearance. Finneran and co-host Chris Dimino questioned the quarterback's development and skillset on 680 The Fan. Fans countered by citing the careers of J.J. McCarthy, Ryan Leaf, and JaMarcus Russell as more significant draft disappointments. The criticism of Penix comes as the Atlanta Falcons face quarterback uncertainty following an oblique injury to starter Tua Tagovailoa. Penix, selected in the 2024 NFL Draft, spent significant time recovering from a partial ACL tear and missed the entirety of the preseason. Supporters argue that the quarterback requires more time to gain fitness and rhythm before his long-term potential can be fairly evaluated.
- •Brian Finneran labeled Michael Penix Jr. the worst draft pick in NFL history on Atlanta radio.
- •The Atlanta Falcons are currently managing quarterback instability after Tua Tagovailoa sustained an oblique injury.
- •Fans referenced J.J. McCarthy, Ryan Leaf, and JaMarcus Russell as alternative historical draft busts.
- •Michael Penix Jr. missed the entire 2026 preseason while recovering from a partial ACL tear.
- •Penix did not receive clearance for full 11-on-11 practice reps until August 22.
- 9:06 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Not Even Close,’ ‘J.J. McCarthy Still Exists’ — Ex-Falcons WR’s Michael Penix Jr. Take Gets Torn Apart by NFL Fans
"The Atlanta Falcons thought they had settled their quarterback situation Monday by naming Tua Tagovailoa their starter, with Michael Penix Jr. still recovering from ACL surgery.
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