Michael Penix Jr. shares connection with Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith

Michael Penix Jr. has taken some inspiration from Geno Smith since he decided to join the Washington Huskies.

Similar to Smith’s NFL career arc, many counted Penix Jr. out when he decided to move on from the Indiana Hoosiers. However, the Washington quarterback has continued to reinvent himself, and he’s proved his supporters right every step of the way for believing in him.

Ahead of leading Washington into the national title game on Monday, Penix Jr. shed some light on his relationship with the Seattle Seahawks quarterback, and how he’s leaned on Smith throughout his time with the Huskies.

“I trained with him in the off-season for a little bit. He’s a great guy, a great leader, and he’s somebody that’s definitely been doing great things in Seattle,” Penix Jr. said. “He has a great fan base there, as well. He’s somebody that — people counted him out, but he done the next right thing and that’s where I got it from.

“He gave me words of advice and stuff like that. He’s a guy that wants to see everybody around him do great. And, man, he’s just a blessing to so many people.”

Alas, it’s evident Geno Smith will be rooting hard for Michael Penix Jr. on Monday evening. They’ll be adversaries in the NFL next season, but for now Smith is imposing his wisdom on the Washington quarterback, looking to share the wealth.

Michael Penix Jr. looks back on decision to transfer to Washington

Since taking his talents to the West Coast, Penix Jr. has evolved into one of the top players in the entire nation, and now has a shot at a national title in the palm of his hands. The NFL will beckon him afterwards, but before all of that, the Huskies quarterback took some time to reflect. 

“The big one was just — like you said, my process, it was pretty good when I came on my visit, strictly about business. I already knew what I wanted my last couple years to look like, and that helped me be able to have that year and those years that I was looking for,” Penix Jr. explained, regarding his decision to transfer to Washington. “I’m still grateful for the opportunity, but when I went on my visit I just asked to see the film of the guys. I wanted to see what I had around me. 

“Once I saw what I would have around me here, I knew that I couldn’t pass up this opportunity, and I knew that we’d be able to do something.”

Penix Jr. had the foresight, and it’s worked out wonderfully for the quarterback. His journey has molded him, and allowed him to become the leader of one of the best teams in the sport. 

Even if it’s been difficult at times, dealing with numerous injuries in the past, the Washington quarterback wouldn’t change it for the world.