What happened: Tua Tagovailoa was absent during Falcons practice Wednesday, while Michael Penix Jr. threw with a coach on an adjacent field during warmups. The quarterback workload followed earlier indications that Penix would practice and Tagovailoa would sit out.

Why it matters: Any change in Atlanta's quarterback reps carries extra weight after the Falcons named Cooper Rush their Week 1 starter with Tagovailoa out on Sept. 11. Penix getting side work keeps the quarterback picture in focus as Atlanta moves through the opening stretch of the regular season.

What to watch: Atlanta's next injury report and full-practice participation will show whether Tagovailoa's absence extends deeper into the week. Penix's workload in team periods is the next marker to watch.