Michael Penix Jr. shares advice to players in transfer portal

Michael Penix Jr. has become one of the shining example of what the NCAA Transfer Portal can do for a player, specifically a quarterback.

At the Heisman Ceremony in New York, ahead of preparation for the College Football Playoff, the Washington Huskies quarterback took some time to reflect. He was asked to share some advice with players currently in the portal, and he provided that and then some.

“I definitely have been having people coming up to me about the portal and stuff like that,” prefaced Penix, speaking with the media. “For me, I feel like you’ve just got to trust your heart, and trust in your decision, and know that no matter what, you’ve just got to make the best decision for yourself. I don’t feel like you should go based on trying to get somewhere bigger, because of the school’s name or something like that.

“I feel like you should go anywhere where you feel a fit, and somewhere that’s going to elevate your game. Help you be a better version of yourself. For me, Washington was that. I’m super glad that I chose it.”

Alas, that’s some poignant stuff from Penix. He’s an example of what’s possible when you choose the right transfer destination, but it’s easier said than done.

Moreover, Penix Jr. deserves praise for his phenomenal season, but even if he doesn’t win the Heisman Trophy on Saturday, the Washington quarterback is proud that he’s part of that race, especially since winning and going undefeated this season are significant parts of his case.

His strategy is simple — Penix is just going to let whatever happens happen as far as the votes go ahead of the ceremony this weekend.

“It’s just a blessing to be able to be in that talk,” Penix added. “For me, it was always the main thing was to win. To be able to do that today on a stage like this? It’s incredible. I’m going to always savor this moment.”

“I’m just super excited. Right now? I’m just really living in this moment,” Penix continued. “Whatever happens come next weekend is going to happen. It’s already written.”

Penix Jr. also took that opportunity at the mic to thank the program for giving him the chance to even have a shot at being the Heisman. That included his offensive line that has allowed him to take just 10 sacks this season. He also mentioned his coaching staff for putting him in positions to be successful.

“Obviously, I couldn’t do it without the guys around me,” Penix said. “I got to thank my offensive line for all the work that they put in each and every day to allow me to stay clean on Saturdays. I’m just super blessed for the guys I have around me. Coach DeBoer and the staff as well, for sure.”

Penix Jr. led the nation in passing yards this season with 4,218. He also tied for second in passing touchdowns with 33 while maintaining a better than 3.5-to-1 touchdown to interception ratio. His completion rate was Top-25 in the country as well as he made 65.9% of his throws in 2023.

Michael Penix Jr. has been a shining example of what the NCAA Transfer Portal can do for a player, especially a quarterback. We’ll see which athletes take his advice moving forward.

On3’s Sam Gillenwater contributed to this article.