When the Atlanta Falcons arrive for training camp in a few weeks, all eyes will be on quarterback Michael Penix Jr. After spending his rookie year as the backup to Kirk Cousins, Penix enters Year 2 as the team’s unquestioned starting quarterback.

We spoke with the former top-10 pick about a variety of topics, including his chemistry with center Ryan Neuzil, the advice he received from Matt Ryan, his approach to being named Atlanta’s QB1, and his partnership with Sharpie.

What was the biggest thing you learned during your rookie season?

Penix: The biggest thing is just learning the speed of the game and, you know, just the understanding of the game, how it works, the ins and outs and how to be successful.

How has being named the starting QB affected your approach to the offseason/ ability to lead the team?

Penix: I wouldn’t say it affected my approach. Obviously, as far as getting reps with the first-team guys, you know, that’s definitely a big-time difference that I’ve been going through. But it’s been good, though, so I’ve been excited. Each and every offseason my approach is the same.

What is one area of your game that you’d still like to improve upon?

Penix: I would say just connecting with my guys. Obviously, it’s still early. We’ve still got some more time. We’ve got camp coming up so just being able to have that connection with them so we’re always on the same page.

How has meeting with Falcons legends Matt Ryan and Mike Vick helped prepare you for the season?

Penix: I met with Matt Ryan and I’ve talked to Vick here and there you know, but just their plan, their offseason plan, that’s the biggest thing. Being a rookie last year, this is my first offseason I’ve had so just understanding how to attack the offseason and do it the right way so that whenever your second year comes up you know how it’s supposed to look.

Do you have any experience playing with Ryan Neuzil and how do you think he’ll fare taking over for Drew Dalman?

Penix: Every day, that’s who I was rolling with in practice so we’ve got a good chemistry. He’s going to ball man. He’s going to do a great job for us. He’s a very smart player and he has what he needs to have to be able to be successful.

What has it been like partnering with Sharpie?

Penix: Tuesday marked the first year that I’ve been with Sharpie. The partnership that we have has been amazing. And using that Sharpie S-Gel pen for signing my first contract in the NFL. And obviously, it’s going on right now — all the rookies are signing their contracts so I’m just hoping they are using that Sharpie S-Gel pen too. I’ve been using Sharpie since I was a little kid and I think everybody that has played sports picked up a Sharpie as a little kid., So it’s just a blessing to be a part of it.

This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons: Michael Penix Jr. praises Ryan Neuzil, Matt Ryan