Atlanta Falcons, Kevin Stefanski, NFL
Atlanta Falcons Continue to Deal With Quarterback Injuries Ahead of Week 1 1
September 12, 2026 Atlanta Falcons, Featured, NFC South, NFL
The Atlanta Falcons are hoping for a season of progression after failing to make the postseason in 2025. The franchise changed its coaching staff and added a pair of new quarterbacks to the roster. However, the quarterback room has been battling through injuries before Week 1 has even gotten here. Let’s take a closer look at the latest news about the Atlanta Falcons and their quarterback carousel.
Atlanta Falcons dealing with more injuries at the quarterback position
Atlanta Falcons, Cooper RushAtlanta Falcons, Cooper Rush
Aug 28, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Cooper Rush (13) calls for a play from behind the line of scrimmage against the Miami Dolphins during the second quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
The Atlanta Falcons were believed to have a quarterback competition between Michael Penix Jr. and Tua Tagovailoa for the starting quarterback in Week 1. However, injuries have played a major role and have left both men missing the season opener. Cooper Rush is expected to be the starting quarterback against the Pittsburgh Steelers for Week 1, but he has reportedly also been battling an injury of his own.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on Saturday afternoon that Rush experienced back spasms on Saturday, but it should not affect his status for Sunday’s game. He played in all three preseason games for the Atlanta Falcons and completed 30 of 48 (62.5%) of his passes for 254 yards with one passing touchdown to a pair of interceptions.
With the offensive weapons of running back Bijan Robinson, wide receiver Drake London, and tight end Kyle Pitts, Rush is not going to be asked to do too much. With Tagovailoa also dealing with a back injury and Penix Jr. not being cleared from his ACL injury last season, undrafted free agent Jack Strand will serve as the backup quarterback.
The Atlanta Falcons are going to have an intriguing 2026 season as they attempt to make the postseason for the first time since the 2017 season. They have a lot of young talent on the roster, but they are still looking for an answer at quarterback. It will be interesting to see whether Cooper Rush can turn heads as he gets the start in Week 1 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.