What happened: Rush took all the first-team reps Thursday, giving Atlanta's replacement starter a full session with the offense. [Falcons](https://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/cooper-rush-takes-first-team-reps-in-wake-of-tua-tagovailoa-s-oblique-injury). Undrafted rookie Jack Strand would make his NFL debut if called upon to replace him Sunday.

Why it matters: Michael Penix Jr. will also be inactive, leaving Atlanta without its first two quarterback options for the season opener. [Falcons](https://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/falcons-injury-report-qb-tua-tagovailoa-added-to-thursday-report). The assignment elevates Rush from the backup role Atlanta listed earlier this week.

What to watch: Atlanta's quarterback availability and Rush's performance Sunday will bear watching ahead of Week 2 against the Carolina Panthers.