Michael Penix shared first-team reps in offseason practices but awaits clearance for full contact sessions after finishing last year with 13.7 Fantasy Points Per Game (No. 26). His restricted activity creates an opening for Tua Tagovailoa, who registered a 73.4-percent True Completion Percentage (No. 12) during his 2025 campaign.
Given Stefanski’s concerns and that Michael Penix is not yet cleared for 11-on-11s, it seems unlikely that Penix will be able to participate in mandatory team activities this month. Meanwhile, Tagovailoa is set up to secure the first team reps and establishes an edge ahead of summer training camp. Penix offers more long-term upside, but both players are left-handed and should generally be sidestepped in all formats.
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (knee), who ...
When asked if quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (knee) will be...
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (knee) is ...
The Falcons are preparing to open training camp without Michael Penix Jr., as the coaching staff maintains a patient “no rush” approach to his recovery. Although leadership suggests he is in a “good spot,” there is no definitive timeline for his return beyond a general hope for availability later in the preseason. According to Ryan, Atlanta expects Penix to be healthy “at some point in training camp.”
As a result, Tua Tagovailoa is currently acting as the primary quarterback and will likely start Week 1 if the Falcons continue to slow-play Penix’s recovery. Both Penix and Tagovailoa were Top-10 picks, but the organization is invested in Penix, while Tua was signed off the NFL scrap heap. Penix’s absence from camp is a buy low opportunity in superflex dynasty leagues.
The Falcons’ 2026 training camp dates will likely mirror last year’s late July start. Tua Tagovailoa will start the high-stakes quarterback competition under center early in camp as Michael Penix Jr. recovers from November 2025 ACL surgery, potentially giving Tagovailoa an early edge.
Falcons beat reporters anticipate both quarterbacks will start at various points this season, making them both relevant for QB2 consideration for fantasy football at some point. However, if Penix takes reps in training camp, the chances he starts Week 1 will skyrocket. His dynasty league stock will rise accordingly, especially in superflex and 2QB leagues.
When Michael Penix suffered a partially torn left ACL in Week 11, it cast an ominous cloud over his future. Backup Kirk Cousins took over and the Falcons just missed the playoffs in a 3-way tie in the NFC South where the Panthers held the tie breaker.
New Falcons Head Coach Kevin Stefanski recently spoke to his excitement for Penix heading into 2026. Stefanski spoke highly of his rehab process and talked about things on tape that he excels, such as layering his throws and pushing the ball to different areas of the field.
Stefanski was a little bit more cool on Kirk Cousins acknowledging their existing relationship, but stopping shy of a ringing endorsement. From a dynasty perspective, Penix returning would be excellent for wide receiver Drake London. Just prior to Penix’s injury, London had 3 WR1 overall weeks in the span of 4 games.
Author: Jeremiah Retzlaff (@coachretzlaff1)
Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank made it clear this week that the organization views Michael Penix Jr. as its franchise quarterback, signaling full confidence in his long-term future in Atlanta. Blank praised Penix’s leadership, work ethic, and poise, note that the team believes he has all the traits necessary to lead the Falcons for years to come. The endorsement from ownership reinforces Atlanta’s commitment to building around Penix and suggests the team will prioritize developing the offense to fit his strengths, that the new head coach will have to figure out.
For fantasy football managers, this confirmation cements Penix’s status as a long-term dynasty asset and puts added intrigue on the Falcons pass catchers moving forward.
Author: Jake Lewis (@Lewylewis5)
The Atlanta Falcons will be without quarterback Michael Penix Jr., potentially for the rest of the season, due to a knee injury. He was placed on the injured reserve following the Week 11 game against the Carolina Panthers.
If he misses the rest of the season, he will finish with 1,982 yards passing, nine touchdowns and three nterceptions. The Falcons will turn to veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins for the duration.
Author: Jake Lewis (@Lewylewis5)
