The Atlanta Falcons are getting closer to having a healthy quarterback room, which could prompt the team to make a decision about what to do with the four signal-callers on their 53-man roster. Cooper Rush is set to make his second start of the season for the Falcons' Week 2 contest against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. Rookie quarterback Jack Strand is set to be his backup.
Michael Penix Jr. is still preparing to make his return after suffering the third-ACL injury of his career in 2025. Tua Tagovailoa is doubtful to play the Panthers due to an oblique injury. Tagovailoa struggled during the preseason, which prompted reports that the Falcons could release the veteran quarterback when Penix is ready to play.
However, he looked much better in the practices that led up to Atlanta's season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 1 when the coaching staff tailored the offense for his unique skillset. More news: Exclusive: Breakout NFL Executives Who Could Become Future General Managers More news: 4 QBs Generating Serious Trade Buzz Weeks Before NFL Regular Season Starts Per Ian Rapoport and Adam Schefter of ESPN, Penix is the preferred starting quarterback for the Falcons, and he could make his return for Atlanta's "Thursday Night Football" contest against the Green Bay Packers in Week 3. The Falcons have no immediate plans to release Tagovailoa.
"Tagovailoa is officially listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Panthers, and his future in Atlanta has become a topic for discussion," Schefter and Rapoport wrote. "But sources say to not expect the Falcons to move on from Tagovailoa, even if they would have four healthy quarterbacks." Rapoport and Schefter suggested the Falcons could look to move Tagovailoa at some point before the trade deadline on Nov. 10. The Falcons appear hopeful Tagovailoa will be active for Week 3.
Rush went 12 of 22 passing for 143 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions in the Falcons' 20-13 loss to the Steelers in Week 1. Atlanta will need better quarterback play to beat the Panthers, who put up 37 points in a loss to the Chicago Bears in Week 1. For more on the Falcons and the NFL, head to Newsweek Sports.
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