Michael Penix Jr's perseverance through injuries a 'positive,' will improve any NFL roster, Rome Odunze says

Rome Odunze knows firsthand what type of quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is. The former Washington wide receiver vouched for his ex-teammate's talent ahead of the NFL Draft.

Rome Odunze could be among the first players taken off the board in Thursday’s NFL Draft. His Washington Huskies teammate Michael Penix Jr. may also be taken early.

Penix’s draft stock has risen over the last few weeks, making him one of the best quarterback prospects along with Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye and J.J. McCarthy.

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Rome Odunze of the Washington Huskies celebrates his touchdown catch with Michael Penix Jr. during the Oregon State Beavers game at Reser Stadium on Nov. 18, 2023, in Corvallis, Oregon. (Tom Hauck/Getty Images)

Odunze vouched for Penix in an interview with Fox News Digital.

"I think everything on the field, that’s my QB1 in this draft," the former Huskies wide receiver star. "I think he’s a tremendous talent. From what he’s been able to do on the field, I don’t think that there’s anything that he really lacks. He’s going to improve on all aspects of his game, just like he has in the past two years."

Penix led Washington to the national title game against Michigan last season. He threw for 4,903 yards and 36 touchdown passes. In 2022, he had 4,641 passing yards and 31 touchdown passes. It was during those two seasons that he showcased what he’s capable of when he’s healthy.

He was oft-injured while at Indiana and he transferred to Washington after the 2021 season. Penix penned a letter to general managers last week, recalling his injuries and urging NFL officials to dive into his tape and overlook the concerns about his health.

Washington's Rome Odunze hauls in a