Falcons expect Penix to start Sunday vs. Bears

Return hinges on rib injury with no setbacks

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 1h1 min read

Falcons HC Kevin Stefanski said he expects QB Michael Penix Jr. to start Sunday against the Bears as long as he has no s Via @AdamSchefter on X

What happened: Stefanski said Wednesday's limited session will shape the final call for Penix. He has been working back from a rib injury that left his Sunday status conditional.

Why it matters: Getting the 2024 eighth overall pick back would stabilize Atlanta's quarterback rotation entering a road matchup. Chicago is 3-1 and will be without starting edge rusher Montez Sweat for Sunday's game.

By the numbers: Penix completed 166 of 276 passes for 1,982 yards with 9 touchdowns and 3 interceptions in 9 games in 2025. Chicago enters at 3-1.

What to watch: Practice participation through Friday and the final injury report will determine clearance.

Sources

@AdamSchefter 2026-10-14T16:55:44.711681+00:00

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NFLInjuryAtlanta FalconsChicago BearsMichael Penix Jr.

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