Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr will return from his ACL injury and make his first start in Week 3 vs. the Packers on Thursday Night Football. The Falcons could use Penix, as they rank dead last in the NFL in team passing yards through two games with Cooper Rush forced into action (as well as a quarter of Jack Strand).
Drake London and Kyle Pitts owners rejoice. While Penix had a mixed 2025 season, he did rank No. 14 in Adjusted Yards Per Attempt (7.01) so the Falcons will be able to push the ball down the field and open up the playbook. It is uncertain how long Penix’s leash will be after Tua Tagovailoa returns from his ankle injury, but Tua was estimated as a limited participant in today’s walk-through practice.
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After a disastrous three quarters including two interceptions and a lost fumble, the Falcons have seen enough of Cooper Rush, and are turning to rookie UDFA Jack Strand. Strand will have his hands full as he tries to get something going against a stingy Panthers defense.
Moving forward, Michael Penix is reportedly nearing a return and could be back in the lineup as soon as the Falcons’ Week 3 Thursday Night Football matchup against the Green Bay Packers, meanwhile, no official timeline has been given for Tua Tagovailoa’s return.
