Kevin Stefanski 'not ruling anybody out' as injuries to Cooper Rush, Tua Tagovailoa cloud Falcons' QB plans, tell me about this news in (https://www.foxnews.com/outkick-sports/kevin-stefanski-not-ruling-anybody-out-injuries-cooper-rush-tua-tagovailoa-cloud-falcons-qb-plans)
17-09-2026
Here is an overview of the report regarding the Atlanta Falcons’ quarterback situation heading into their Week 2 matchup:
Larry Brown SportsHead coach Kevin Stefanski stated that the Falcons are “working through it” and are not ruling anyone out among their quarterback options for Sunday’s home opener against the Carolina Panthers.
Ground NewsKey details from the situation include:
Tua Tagovailoa: After originally being named the starting quarterback ahead of Week 1, Tagovailoa suffered an oblique injury during practice. While Stefanski noted he is progressing and getting better, he did not participate in Wednesday’s practice, leaving his availability uncertain.
Atlanta Falcons+ 1Cooper Rush: Rush stepped in to start Week 1 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, dealing with back spasms leading up to the game and finishing with 143 passing yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions in a 20–13 loss. Despite the lingering back issue, Rush was able to practice Wednesday.
Ground NewsMichael Penix Jr.: Penix has been working his way back from a 2025 ACL tear. While he practiced Wednesday as a full participant in drills, the coaching staff continues to approach his return to game action with caution.
Ground News+ 1Current Outlook: With injuries affecting both Tagovailoa and Rush, Stefanski emphasized flexibility and indicated the team will wait to see how the week of preparation develops before officially deciding who will start under center.
The Big Lead