Despite Upcoming Visit, Steelers Interest in Michael Penix Is Half-Hearted

The Pittsburgh Steelers have an official 30 visit set with Washington quarterback Michael Penix, he revealed after Washington pro day. That is the first quarterback linked to them, and it comes after the team revamped their entire room by bringing in Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, and Kyle Allen.

The Steelers have bigger needs than quarterback, so bringing in Penix for a visit is definitely interesting. Mark Kaboly of The Athletic thinks it doesn’t mean much, however. He believes the Steelers are just doing it as due diligence for a down the road situation.

“I don’t think so. I think this is, I would assume number one is, maybe they didn’t get a chance to talk to him,” Kaboly told Chris Mueller of 93.7 The Fan. “It might be someone they are interested in, three or four years down the road, type of situation. I don’t think it is anything they are really interested in right now to be able to draft him. Especially if he can go late first, early second.”

Penix flashed his sub-4.6 speed at pro day, testing well. On top of that, he put his vertical throwing on display, catching the eyes on many scouts.

Bruce Arians, who was the Steelers offensive coordinator at one point and is now a Super Bowl winning coach, believes that Penix is a hidden gem in the class.

“As far as the football grade, I love (Penix) because he does things I love to do,” Arians told the Tampa Bay Times. “He puts (the ball) up the field. He’s as accurate on throws up the field as anyone I’ve seen in 15 years Just to fight through that last game after he had that ankle tore up. But what he did to Texas was unbelievable.”

Penix’s Sugar Bowl game is one that everyone should point to if they want the Steelers to land him.

He completed 28 of 36 attempts for 430 yards and two touchdowns against them, showing off his best traits. Penix has an identity as a guy who can run a little hot and cold at times, but there is no doubt he was on in this game.

His vertical passing ability stuck out as he made tight window throws downfield all game. The most impressive part of his game? His pocket movement. Penix’s calm movements allowed him to distribute the ball to his excellent playmakers efficiently. It could easily boost his draft stock sharply, though some questionable medicals will arise. But his vertical passing with George Pickens could become a real weapon if that’s the route Pittsburgh wants to go.