Falcons Quarterback Room Already Dealing With 3 Injuries

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Sep 12, 2026 5:21 PM ET

The Atlanta Falcons may want to consider the possibility that their quarterback room is cursed.

Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski had a feeling Michael Penix Jr. wouldn’t be ready for Week 1 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. After all, he’s still recovering from a torn ACL suffered last November. There’s simply no reason to rush him back, especially since the franchise is committed to him being their long-term option.

In an effort to bolster their quarterback room, Atlanta signed Tua Tagovailoa to a one-year deal this past offseason. He was supposed to start the season opener, but he suffered an oblique injury during practice this week. The injury was serious enough that he’s already been ruled out for Sunday’s game.

“During the open media portion of practice, Falcons QB Tua Tagovailoa touched his back and sat down on the grass briefly during individual drills Thursday,” said ESPN’s Marc Raimondi. “It was unclear exactly what had happened. He didn’t seem to throw again after, but media only gets to watch a small portion of practice.”

Aug 14, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) drops back to pass against the Denver Broncos in the first quater at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn ImagesBrett Davis-Imagn Images.

Since Penix and Tagovailoa are sidelined for Week 1, the Falcons will need Cooper Rush to step up as their starter. The longtime backup quarterback enters this season with 3,766 career passing yards and 20 touchdowns.

Even though Rush is expected to suit up Sunday, he’s also dealing with a health issue at the moment.

The Falcons announced Saturday that Rush experienced back spasms. It’s not expected to keep him off the field though.