The Atlanta Falcons may finally be able to start their quarterback competition.
Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. has been cleared to practice, coach Kevin Stefanski announced Saturday. The plan is for him to take part on Monday.
Stefanski: Michael Penix is cleared for 11s. He'll practice Monday. #Falcons
— Marc Raimondi (@marcraimondi) August 22, 2026
Penix came into camp not yet cleared for contact after the ACL tear he suffered in 2025. The Falcons signed Tua Tagovailoa in the offseason to compete with him and cover for him, but Penix’s lengthy recovery means Tagovailoa remains the most likely Week 1 starter.
Penix may well believe he can beat out Tagovailoa when healthy, or at least that is what fans think. Ultimately, he only has a limited amount of time to do so. Tagovailoa could well struggle during the regular season, however, assuming he gets the job.
Last season, Penix played nine games before going down with the injury. He flashed potential by throwing for nine touchdowns and three interceptions, though he averaged a modest 220 yards per game.
