Falcons’ Michael Penix Jr. impersonated by former Alabama player in $20M loan scam, reports say

ATLANTA, Ga. - Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. was impersonated by a former Alabama player as part of a $20 million loan scam, according to reports.

Luther Davis, a former defensive tackle at the University of Alabama, allegedly impersonated three NFL players to obtain nearly $20 million from 13 loans.

He allegedly used the wig and make up to impersonate the players over several video calls in 2024.

One of the three players was Penix, according to The Guardian.

The detailed allegations are included in a criminal complaint filed against Davis last month by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Atlanta.

Davis and CJ Evins, who prosecutors say executed the scheme with Davis, are charged with one count each of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. They both pleaded not guilty in March, but they are scheduled to return to court on April 27 to enter a guilty plea, according to court filings.

An email and call to Davis’ attorney, Gabe Banks, were not immediately returned. Evins’ attorney, Benjamin Alper, confirmed his client is scheduled to plead guilty, but he said he had no additional comment.

The complaint says none of the NFL players had authorized Davis and Evins to obtain loans. In addition to wearing disguises, prosecutors say Davis used fake driver’s licenses with photos of the players that could be found online.

Davis and Evins used the money to buy real estate, jewelry and cars, according to the complaint.

The Associated Press contributed to this article.