The Atlanta Falcons made one of the most shocking moves in recent history during the 2024 NFL Draft.
After much speculation that the Falcons would add to their offensive or defensive line, they pivoted in a big way.
The Falcons drafted Michael Penix Jr. with the No. 8 overall pick in the draft, a selection that came a few weeks after signing Kirk Cousins to a four-year contract.
This move split the fanbase.
On one hand, this move was an opportunity for the Falcons to lock down a future quarterback, building someone up and having them learn behind Cousins.
On the other hand, Penix doesn’t exactly help the Falcons win more games in 2024 than they did in 2023, which some might see as a wasted draft pick.
Regardless of what the fanbase thinks, Cam Newton recently appeared on the “4th and 1 Show,” where he provided a word of advice for the Falcons.
“Don’t let Penix come in and win the locker room over,” Newton said, adding, “It’s a distraction.”
“Don’t let Penix come in and win the locker room over… it’s a distraction.'”@CameronNewton believes the @AtlantaFalcons‘ front office is sending mixed signals to the players pic.twitter.com/lhwlHMMuGS
— 4thand1show (@4thand1show) May 2, 2024
With Cousins still recovering from his Achilles injury last season, there’s no telling when he will return to the Falcons facility.
While it is important for Cousins to rehab and get better as soon as possible, any lost time could be detrimental to his relationships within the locker room.
Cousins might have years of NFL experience over Penix, but he doesn’t have an established rapport with this offense.
If Penix gets more time with his new teammates right out of the gate, it could make for an interesting situation when Cousins returns.
The post Cam Newton Warns Falcons About Potential Distraction With Team appeared first on The Cold Wire.