The Atlanta Falcons’ quarterback situation remains a focal point in the NFL. Injuries during the offseason and Cooper Rush’s two-week tenure as starter put the spotlight on Atlanta. Stability seemed to return with Michael Penix Jr. back as the starting quarterback.
During a tense game against the Baltimore Ravens, Penix suffered a rib injury following a sack. Although he briefly returned, he was unable to continue in overtime. Tua Tagovailoa stepped in but ended the game with an interception, leaving Penix’s status for the crucial Week 6 face-off against the Chicago Bears up in the air.
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Following an MRI, Falcons’ head coach Kevin Stefanski indicated on Wednesday that Penix is likely to start Sunday, assuming no setbacks. Penix was involved in practice and was classified as a limited participant.
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Stefanski withheld detailed information about Penix’s rib injury, stating instead that Penix is “feeling better.” ESPN’s Adam Schefter mentioned on “The Pat McAfee Show” that the injury did not appear to be long-term when it occurred.
Penix’s participation in practice this week will rely on his comfort level, according to Stefanski. “I want to see how he’s feeling,” he explained. “With any injury like this, you want to ensure that they move freely and feel fine — it could vary.” ESPN reported that Penix took all the first-team reps at practice.
Penix expressed positivity about his recovery. “I felt good today at practice,” he shared, commenting on his ribs’ condition. “I just have to stay on top of my rehab and ensure I’m doing the right things.” He seemed confident about playing this week.
Penix’s injury history from his college days includes an ACL injury requiring surgery last November, sidelining him for the Falcons’ first two games this season.
Meanwhile, Bears’ key player Caleb Williams is uncertain for Sunday’s matchup. Having missed two games due to a hamstring injury, Bears head coach Ben Johnson anticipated that Williams would be fully involved in practice.
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