Chicago Bears General Manager Ryan Poles was as stunned as anyone when the Atlanta Falcons chose Michael Penix Jr. with the 8th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
The Bears’ official X account shared a video from their draft day war room, capturing the tense moments as the team hoped Washington wide receiver Rome Odunze would be available for their 9th pick. Poles had anticipated the New York Giants might take Odunze at 5, but they instead selected Malik Nabers from LSU, much to his relief.
However, the highlight of the video came when the Falcons announced their selection. Expecting Atlanta might pick Odunze, Poles was visibly shocked to see them opt for Penix, the quarterback from Washington instead.
Poles’ jaw dropped in disbelief as Atlanta made their pick, but the surprise quickly turned to celebration in the Bears’ war room once they realized Odunze was still on the board.
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Odunze had a standout final season at Washington, leading the NCAA with 1,692 receiving yards, catching 92 passes, and scoring 13 touchdowns.
The Falcons’ choice of Penix was not only surprising to Poles but also perplexed fans and media, especially considering the Falcons had recently signed veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to a substantial contract.
