Tua Tagovailoa’s Injury Forces Changes for Atlanta Falcons

The Atlanta Falcons face a setback as Tua Tagovailoa, recently named the team’s starting quarterback, is out for at least the opening week due to an oblique injury. This development leaves the Falcons traveling to Pittsburgh without both Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr., who is also unavailable.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed that Tagovailoa is officially sidelined and currently listed as “week-to-week.” Penix, who was already out, will not participate. According to ESPN, Tagovailoa’s current injury is not linked to his previous back issue during training camp, which had kept him out for nearly a week.

Veteran quarterback Cooper Rush will step into the starting role. Rush, who joined the Falcons after Tagovailoa’s back concerns emerged, will lead the team on Sunday. Having played in 42 regular-season games over his career, he brings experience to the position. Rush previously played most of his games with the Dallas Cowboys and spent last season with the Baltimore Ravens.

Michael Penix Jr., drafted as a first-round pick in 2024, began nine of the first ten games for the Falcons last season. He missed one game due to an injury and later suffered a torn ACL in a game against the Carolina Panthers. Penix has been cleared to play but stated he prefers to ensure his full recovery before returning to the field.

Meanwhile, Jack Strand, an undrafted player from Minnesota State Moorhead, will serve as the backup quarterback. He impressed fans during preseason, finishing with 306 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.