NFL21 hours ago1 minute read

Atlanta Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. Nearing Return

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. could make his 2026 debut in Week 3, while Cooper Rush starts Sunday against the Panthers.

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Penix Nearing Return

The quarterback situation for the Atlanta Falcons is starting to get clearer. Michael Penix Jr., the preferred starter for the team, is close to making his return from a torn ACL. He could make his 2026 debut as early as Thursday night against the Green Bay Packers.

Penix missed the first two games of the season. Even though playing on a short week is not ideal, he split reps in practice this past week before being ruled out for Sunday. Observers say Penix has looked impressive in practice. The team has always targeted Week 3 for his return.

Rush Starts Sunday

With Penix out for Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers, Cooper Rush will get his second straight start. Rush struggled in the season opening loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, completing 12 of 22 passes for 143 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. Coach Kevin Stefanski announced that undrafted rookie Jack Strand will serve as the backup on Sunday.

Tua Tagovailoa is also recovering from an oblique injury and is listed as doubtful for Sunday. However, Tagovailoa is expected to practice next week and could be active for the Thursday night game against Green Bay.

Tagovailoa is on a one year veteran's minimum contract worth 1.2 million dollars. The Falcons do not plan to move on from him, even if they have four healthy quarterbacks. If he plays well, Atlanta might look to trade him before the November 10 deadline. If both Penix and Tagovailoa cannot play on Thursday, they will get extra rest before a Monday night game against the New Orleans Saints on October 5.

What it means for the next game

Carolina Panthers at Atlanta Falcons (NFL, Sun, 20 Sep): Atlanta Falcons win 38%, Carolina Panthers win 62%; projected score Atlanta Falcons 20, Carolina Panthers 23. Our safest pick: Over 36.5 points.

Atlanta Falcons at Green Bay Packers (NFL, Fri, 25 Sep): Green Bay Packers win 75%, Atlanta Falcons win 25%; projected score Green Bay Packers 26, Atlanta Falcons 20. Our safest pick: Packers to win.