Penix says he is close to 100% but not ready for Falcons opener

Atlanta will keep him inactive in Week 1.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Sep 71 min read

"I just told him I'm not where I want to be right now. And I want to be able to be 100% so I can help the team win footb Via @RapSheet on X

What happened: The quarterback wants to be fully able to help Atlanta win before returning. He was cleared for full-team work Aug. 22 after previously being limited to individual and 7-on-7 drills.

Why it matters: The decision gives Penix more time to regain game speed following knee rehabilitation. It also delays his first regular-season action since the injury ended his 2025 campaign.

By the numbers: Penix participated in six 11-on-11 practices during training camp. His knee injury occurred in Week 11 of the 2025 season.

What to watch: The next checkpoint is when Atlanta makes Penix active for a game.

Sources

@RapSheet 2026-09-07T18:29:11.289469+00:00

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NFLInjuryAtlanta FalconsMichael Penix Jr.

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