Atlanta Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa experienced a setback during Thursday's practice when he grabbed at his back and sat on the grass after throwing one pass. The team later listed him as limited with an oblique injury, which could be a sign of more serious trouble. Tagovailoa was named the starter after training camp, beating out Michael Penix Jr. who was also vying for the role. Rush has been preparing to step in if needed, though he hasn’t been officially told whether he will start on Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Falcons signed Rush on July 29, just as training camp began, and he has played in 42 games during his NFL career so far. Rush took all of the first-team offensive reps after Tagovailoa was limited Thursday, according to the Falcons.
Michael Penix Jr. is also out for Sunday’s game, recovering from ACL surgery and not expected to play in the season opener, according to CBS Sports. Penix had only participated in six 11-on-11 practices during training camp, according to head coach Kevin Stefanski, which may affect his readiness. Penix was a full participant in Thursday's practice but will still be inactive for the opener. Tagovailoa’s injury history includes multiple concussions and other issues that have raised concerns about his long-term availability, according to a report from ESPN.
If Tagovailoa cannot play, Cooper Rush would likely take over as the starting quarterback for the season opener. The team has not yet confirmed whether Tagovailoa’s injury is serious enough to keep him out of Sunday's game. Rush said he remains ready and prepared for any opportunity that comes his way, regardless of who starts. Rookie Jack Strand is listed behind Rush on Atlanta's Week 1 quarterback depth chart.
The Falcons are monitoring Tagovailoa’s condition closely as they prepare for their opening game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Tagovailoa was released by the Miami Dolphins in the offseason, leaving Miami with a record $99.2 million in dead cap charges over two seasons. The Falcons signed Tagovailoa to a one-year, $1.3 million contract, according to Reuters. His recent struggles and past injuries have led some to believe that Penix could be given a chance at the starting role later in the season.
Despite his experience and previous NFL success, Rush’s career has not always been consistent with starts or wins. Cooper Rush has spent time with multiple teams including the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants during his career. He has started 16 of his 42 NFL games and has a 9-7 record as a starter.
The Falcons are in a tough spot with their quarterback situation heading into the season opener. They must decide whether to trust Tagovailoa or rely on Rush and Penix as backups.
The team’s decision will likely depend on how Tagovailoa responds in the coming days. If he is unable to play, it could open up a larger window for Penix or even give Rush more opportunities.