The Washington Huskies are making moves to secure a new starting quarterback as they prepare for life without Michael Penix Jr., who is likely headed to the NFL.
Reportedly, the Huskies are in discussions with Mississippi State quarterback Will Rogers and running back Jo’Quavious Marks, both of whom have recently entered the transfer portal. ESPN’s Pete Thamel suggests that Washington is the strong favorite to acquire Rogers.
Sources: Washington will host a pair of Mississippi State transfers this week – both quarterback Will Rogers and tailback Jo’Quavious Marks are slated to visit Seattle on Friday. The Huskies are considered the strong favorite for Rogers.
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) December 12, 2023
Thamel also noted on “College Football Live” that there’s considerable mutual interest between Rogers and Washington. There’s a good chance he could step into Michael Penix’s shoes in Seattle once the Huskies’ College Football Playoff season concludes.
Although Penix Jr. hasn’t officially declared for the 2024 NFL Draft, it’s widely expected that he will. This draft class features an array of talented quarterbacks, including USC’s Caleb Williams, North Carolina’s Drake Maye, Oregon’s Bo Nix, and Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy.
During his four-year stint at Mississippi State, Rogers amassed an impressive 12,315 passing yards, 94 touchdowns, 28 interceptions, and two rushing touchdowns. His standout season was in 2021 when he threw for 4,739 yards and 36 touchdowns.
Penix Jr. has guided the No. 2 ranked Huskies to the College Football Playoff National Championship, where they will face No. 3 ranked Texas in the Sugar Bowl and semifinals. In the 2023 season, Penix Jr. has accumulated 4,218 passing yards, 33 touchdowns, nine interceptions, and three rushing scores.
With Penix Jr. on his way out, the Huskies are making strides to secure a top-notch replacement for the 2024 season.