Cooper Rush is officially stepping up as the starting quarterback for Sunday’s game against the Panthers, with Jack Strand backing him up. That’s because Atlanta dropped the bomb: Michael Penix Jr. is officially out with a knee injury, and Tua Tagovailoa is doubtful with an oblique injury for Week 2.
Penix’s “Progression” Is Still Not Ready
This isn’t a surprise out of nowhere for Penix. The guy’s still recovering from reconstructive knee surgery that took him out midway through last season. Even though he was a full participant in practice all week, which usually sounds like a good sign, right? Coach Kevin Stefanski isn’t biting on when he’ll be back. He wouldn’t even speculate on Penix’s availability for Week 3 when the Falcons hit Green Bay for a Thursday night matchup. Stefanski’s sticking to the script, saying, “Again, it’s a progression. Feel really confident in the plan, feel really confident in what we’ve done, and what Mike has done both on the field and medically. And like he’s told you, like I’ve told you , when he’s ready, he’ll be ready.” Sounds like they’re playing it super safe, but you gotta wonder how long this “progression” takes.
Tua Sidelined, Rush Steps Up
Adding to the chaos, Tua Tagovailoa picked up an oblique injury during practice just last week. So even if Penix was somehow ready to roll, Tua’s status has him squarely on the doubtful list. Cooper Rush, who was already expected to start earlier on Friday, is now the guy for real on Sunday. He’s been dealing with a back issue himself, but Stefanski offered a slight glimmer of hope, saying Rush is “doing better.” It’s not exactly a ringing endorsement, but it’s what they’ve got for their Week 2 opener.
So, the Falcons roll into Sunday’s game against the Panthers with Rush under center, facing down some serious early season QB drama. With a Thursday night game looming in Green Bay for Week 3, Atlanta needs someone healthy and ready to go. The clock’s ticking on Penix’s “progression,” and right now, it’s all about patching things up in the pocket for that road trip.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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