The Atlanta Falcons are staring down a brutal 0-2 hole, and as they gear up for their Week 3 primetime clash against the Green Bay Packers, they’ve got some real headaches with nine players popping up on their estimated injury report. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is set to make his first start on Thursday night, which is huge for an 0-2 squad, but the team’s health is a serious question mark heading into a tough road game at Lambeau Field.
Penix Under Center, Tua on the Mend
So, the big news is Michael Penix Jr. is officially the starting quarterback for Thursday’s showdown in Green Bay. That’s a massive moment for the rookie, and it tells you everything about where this team is at after two brutal losses. The good news for Penix is he was a full participant in the simulated Monday practice despite a knee issue. You can’t be worried about your starting QB being banged up before his first ever start, right?
Meanwhile, veteran Tua Tagovailoa, who’s been out of the last four practices, was listed as a limited participant with an oblique injury. Honestly, that’s an improvement for him! Still, having two QBs on the injury report, even if one is just a formality, shows you the Falcons are really trying to get things sorted out as they search for that elusive first win of the season.
A Full House on the Injury Report
Beyond the quarterbacks, the Falcons have a ton of guys dealing with dings and dents. Edge rusher Samson Ebukam is nursing a hamstring issue, and cornerback A.J. Terrell has a groin problem; both were non-participants in the simulated Monday practice. Now, the team didn’t actually practice, so you can’t read too much into those DNP listings, but these are two key defensive players. It’s never good to see your playmakers on the sidelines, even if it’s just on paper.
Then you’ve got a whole list of guys who were limited participants: right tackle Jawaan Taylor (rib), defensive end Brandon Dorlus (thumb), tight end Nick Muse (shoulder), and running back Brian Robinson Jr. (ankle). That’s four more starters or key contributors not at 100%. Rounding out the report, DB Billy Bowman was a full participant, which is a positive note at least. When you’re 0-2, every little injury feels like a mountain, and the Falcons are definitely facing a few.
This team needs a spark, and they need it fast. Can Penix Jr. overcome this rash of injuries and lead them to their first victory of the season? We’ll find out when they kick off against the Packers on Thursday at 8:15 p.m. ET at Lambeau Field. It’s a prime-time gut check, and the Falcons have to show up or risk digging an even deeper hole.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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