Overview
- Multiple outlets reported Friday that Cooper Rush will make his second straight start for the Falcons in Week 2 with first-team reps shifting to him in practice.
- Michael Penix Jr. said he feels “close” to playing but remains not fully cleared for game action after his ACL rehab, so the team is continuing a cautious return timetable.
- Tua Tagovailoa did not practice this week because of an oblique issue, leaving undrafted rookie Jack Strand as the expected backup on the 53-man roster.
- Rush struggled in Week 1, completing 12 of 22 passes for 143 yards with one touchdown, two interceptions and four sacks, a performance that raises immediate pressure on play-calling.
- The Falcons kept four quarterbacks on the roster for insurance and now face a near-term choice: secure a healthy starter or accelerate plans to give Strand more responsibility if Rush’s struggles continue.