Falcons name Tua Tagovailoa starter, Cooper Rush backup

Michael Penix will be inactive Sunday.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Sep 71 min read

Falcons HC Kevin Stefanski told reporters today that Tua Tagovailoa will be the starter, Cooper Rush will be the backup, Via @AdamSchefter on X

What happened: Kevin Stefanski said Penix is not physically ready to play. The decision settles Atlanta’s quarterback order for its season opener.

Why it matters: Rush becomes the immediate replacement if Tagovailoa leaves the game. Atlanta kept four quarterbacks on its initial 53-man roster as insurance amid injury concerns.

By the numbers: Tagovailoa completed 10 of 13 preseason passes for 117 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions. Rush has completed 61.1% of his career passes for 3,766 yards, 20 touchdowns and 14 interceptions.

What to watch: Penix’s practice status will determine when he can return to Atlanta’s game-day lineup.

Sources

@AdamSchefter 2026-09-07T15:34:02.812488+00:00

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NFLInjuryAtlanta FalconsCooper RushTua Tagovailoa

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