Tua Tagovailoa’s Injury Shakes Up Falcons’ Quarterback Plans

The Atlanta Falcons face an early season setback as starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is sidelined by an oblique injury, ruling him out for at least Week 1. This development has compelled the Falcons to head to Pittsburgh without either Tagovailoa or Michael Penix Jr. in uniform.

Kevin Stefanski, the Falcons’ head coach in his first year, confirmed to the media that Tagovailoa is on a ‘week-to-week’ recovery timeline. Penix had been listed as out the previous week.

According to ESPN, Tagovailoa’s current injury is not associated with the tight back that limited his training camp participation earlier this year.

Quarterback Lineup Changes

With Tagovailoa unavailable, veteran quarterback Cooper Rush is stepping up as QB1 for Sunday’s game. Rush previously played with the Dallas Cowboys over eight NFL seasons and had a stint with the Baltimore Ravens last year.

Michael Penix Jr.’s Status

Penix, a first-round pick in 2024, started nine out of the Falcons’ first ten games last season. He had missed the Week 8 game against the Miami Dolphins due to an injury before returning in Week 9. Penix suffered an ACL tear in a Week 11 matchup against the Carolina Panthers and, although medically cleared, stated he isn’t ready to play until closer to full strength.

“I had that conversation and I just told [coach Stefanski], ‘I’m not where I want to be right now,'” Penix shared earlier this month. “I aim to be 100 percent to help the team win games, and I’m really close.”

Backup Plans

In preparation for potential absences, the Falcons signed Rush following concerns about Tagovailoa’s back issues during training camp.

Undrafted free agent Jack Strand from Minnesota State Moorhead will serve as Rush’s backup. His impressive preseason performance included 306 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, quickly endearing him to fans.