The Atlanta Falcons made a somewhat surprising move to carry four quarterbacks on the 53-man roster, and as they head into Week 2, they don't have a clear picture as to which one will be the starter.
Michael Penix Jr. made matters a bit more confusing on Wednesday.
The former top-10 pick is nearing his return from ACL surgery — his third ACL injury dating back to college. But according to Penix, he might need more time.
He told reporters on Wednesday that he wasn't ruling out being able to play in Week 2 against the Panthers, but that there were still a few more physical aspects he wanted to work on before he felt comfortable taking the field. He said via Falcons Wire:
"We're working. I'm close. I know I've been saying that but it's just a couple
technical things that I wanna hit, some goals that I have that I want to achieve before I do step foot out on that field."
He continued:
"I mean, I didn't say this week wasn't realistic. Today, I felt good in practice. You know, I want to keep making strides, keep feeling better each and every day. That's what it's about. And once my knee feels where I need it to be, I'm gonna be ready to play."
Now, the comments are bit perplexing when you consider that Penix told Cam Newton in an August podcast appearance that he was physically ready to go. That he could do anything.
Michael Penix Jr. August 11th on Cam Newton’s podcast saying:
— Miles Garrett (@MilesGarrettTV) September 16, 2026
“Physically I got a good ACL…I can go out there and do anything.”
Michael Penix Jr. today:
“It’s not a mental thing…physically I need to hit a couple more goals.” #Falcons https://t.co/2AW6PqGt9X pic.twitter.com/3qPHMripsy
Wednesday's remarks were a stark difference. But of course, recoveries aren't always linear. And he could have felt great in August before realizing there was more work to do once he got involved with team practices.
If Penix can't go on Sunday, Cooper Rush (who struggled in the Week 1 loss and is dealing with back pain), Tua Tagovailoa (who didn't practice on Wednesday due to a hurt oblique) or undrafted preseason star Jack Strand could all be options as the starter.
The Falcons have a short week after Sunday too as they'll face the Packers in Week 3's Thursday night matchup.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Michael Penix Jr. contradicted himself on ACL recovery as Falcons remain in QB limbo
