Michael Penix Jr. injury update as Falcons QB practices ahead of Week 2

The Atlanta Falcons were without their top two quarterbacks, Michael Penix Jr. and Tua Tagovailoa, for their Week 1 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Will either quarterback be available for the Falcons in Week 2? At least one is taking positive steps as Atlanta prepares to host the Carolina Panthers for its home opener, as Penix was once again a full participant at the Falcons' practice on Thursday, Sept. 17.

Penix has been a full participant at each of the Falcons' five official practice sessions to date in 2026 as he seeks to return from a torn ACL he suffered against the Panthers in Week 11 of the 2025 season.

That may be an encouraging sign for Penix, but does it mean his return to the field will be imminent? Or will the Falcons once again start third-stringer Cooper Rush to give the 2024 first-round pick more time to work back to full strength?

Here's what to know about Penix's status ahead of the Falcons' Week 2 game against the Panthers.

Penix officially logged full participation at Falcons practice on Thursday, according to their official injury report.

While that was similar to what Penix did in Week 1, Falcons coach…

Original source: https://www.usatoday.com/sports/