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NFL·INJURY·September 18, 2026 10:51 PM ET

Stefanski says Penix remains on progression plan with Falcons

Rush was expected to start Week 2

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Sep 191 min read
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Stefanski on Penix: It's a progression. Feel really confident in the plan. #Falcons

What happened: Atlanta coach Kevin Stefanski said Michael Penix Jr.'s path to the field remains a progression and said the club is confident in its plan. The update keeps the quarterback's availability tied to the Falcons' week-to-week medical and readiness process.

Why it matters: Quarterback availability remains one of Atlanta's central roster questions after Penix was inactive for Week 1. Cooper Rush was already taking first-team reps and was expected to start Week 2, so any change in Penix's progression could affect how soon Atlanta revisits the depth chart.

By the numbers: Atlanta's recent quarterback timeline has shifted repeatedly: Penix was set for full-team work on Aug. 24, remained inactive on Sept. 7 and Sept. 11, and Rush was on first-team work by Sept. 18.

What to watch: Atlanta's next practice and status reports should show whether Penix is moving closer to game availability. Quarterback rep distribution will be the clearest sign of any near-term change.

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