Tua Tagovailoa’s latest injury setback may accelerate the push to get Michael Penix Jr. back on the field. An oblique injury has ruled out Tagovailoa against the Steelers on Sunday. That leaves Cooper Rush as the default starter in what has quickly become a dire situation in Atlanta. After giving Tagovailoa an opportunity to revive his career, he has suffered multiple injuries and struggled to earn the starting spot.
It’s only a matter of time before Penix Jr. takes over as the starter. Given his
recovery process, October seems like the ideal time. That could change now, with the latest quarterback conundrum Kevin Stefanski faces. Things can change rapidly within a week. For now, fans believe Penix Jr. will be back on the center stage in primetime against the Falcons’ biggest rivals.
With extra time to prepare after a Thursday night road trip against Green Bay, the timing could set up nicely for Penix Jr. Playing in a hostile environment on primetime won’t be overwhelming for him with his experience.
That said, it’s hard to believe Rush will start multiple games if the coaching staff feels Penix Jr. can play and Tagovailoa is still injured. That could lead to him starting in the home opener against Carolina. Despite the uncertainty, the fanbase remains optimistic about the team’s direction in what will be a transitional season.
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