Falcons Still Without Week 1 Starter as Penix Returns to Full Practice
The decision will help decide whether Atlanta leans on veteran Tua Tagovailoa short term or evaluate Michael Penix Jr. for a longer‑term role and roster moves next year.
Overview
- Falcons general manager Ian Cunningham said the team has not named a Week 1 starter and wants more full‑team practice reps before deciding who opens the season.
- Michael Penix Jr. was recently medically cleared for full 11‑on‑11 practice but the club and player agreed he would not play in the preseason finale to avoid rushing his 2025 ACL recovery.
- Reporting from NFL Network’s Cameron Wolfe says the Falcons plan to start Tua Tagovailoa to open the season if needed while giving Penix extended looks 'eventually' once he logs more live reps.
- Atlanta kept four quarterbacks on its 53‑man roster—Tagovailoa, Penix, veteran Cooper Rush and rookie Jack Strand—to provide injury insurance and let the staff evaluate depth and development.
- Outside analysts have questioned the room’s long‑term quality and the front office may use Penix’s performance and health to decide on his fifth‑year option or whether to pursue a quarterback in the 2027 draft.