Overview
- Michael Penix Jr. told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution he is aiming to be ready for Week 1 as he rehabs from late‑November surgery on a partially torn left ACL.
- Atlanta TV reporter Zach Klein said Penix believes he could be ready by April, an aggressive target against the typical nine‑to‑12‑month ACL timeline.
- Kevin Stefanski praised Penix’s rehab but declined to set the quarterback depth chart and confirmed Tommy Rees will handle offensive playcalling.
- After Atlanta cut Kirk Cousins’ 2026 salary to $2.1 million, about $68 million in guarantees vest on March 13, and multiple reports say a release is expected unless plans change.
- With Cousins’ status uncertain and Penix returning from a third career ACL tear, outlets have floated veteran insurance options—one speculative idea being a Geno Smith trade—while NFL.com notes the team will need a strong backup regardless.