Falcons’ Michael Penix Jr. provides promising injury update

The Atlanta Falcons are currently taking part in mandatory minicamp as they gear up for the upcoming 2026 NFL season. The Falcons are hoping to break through and finally end their ugly playoff curse, which has lasted for nearly a decade.

The Falcons made headlines this offseason by signing quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to a deal in free agency, although the team still seems to view Michael Penix Jr. as the franchise QB moving forward. Recently, Penix Jr. provided a positive update on his health after tearing his ACL toward the end of last season.

“I’m right where I need to be. Still making strides day to day. I’m not 100% yet, but I know I will be,” said Penix Jr., per Mark Raimondi of ESPN on X, formerly Twitter.

Meanwhile, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN noted on X that “While Penix hasn’t done 11-man work yet, he’s done more than anticipated so far, given severity of the injury — and Atlanta has taken notice of his rigorous rehab.”

Injuries were a major concern for Penix Jr. coming out of college at Washington, as he had suffered two torn ACLs during his collegiate career. While he stayed healthy for the tail-end of his rookie season, when he was thrust into the starting lineup, and most of the 2026 campaign, Penix Jr. unfortunately went down with another ACL injury, cutting the 2026 season short for him.

It remains to be seen whether he will be healthy and ready to go for Week 1 of this season, or if the Falcons and new head coach Kevin Stefanski would consider starting Tagovailoa even if both quarterbacks are available.

In any case, the Falcons will kick off the new season on September 13 on the road against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

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