Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. was set to start for the National squad in this year’s Senior Bowl. But despite participating in practice sessions throughout the week, the Heisman Trophy finalist will not play in this afternoon’s game.
Oregon quarterback Bo Nix, a fellow Heisman finalist, will play only a couple series. Notre Dame quarterback Sam Hartman will handle the bulk of snaps for the National team, according to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.
Penix isn’t the only notable opt-out for this afternoon’s game. South Carolina wide receiver Xavier Legette, Florida State wide receiver Johnny Wilson, Oklahoma offensive tackle Tyler Guyton, Toledo cornerback Quinyon Mitchell and Penn State cornerback Johnny Dixon are also reportedly skipping the game.
Penix is the No. 5 ranked quarterback on Mel Kiper Jr.’s Big Board heading into this year’s draft process. The 23-year-old quarterback led Washington to a National Championship appearance this past season, but the Huskies came up short against the Michigan Wolverines.