Atlanta Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski has officially named quarterback Cooper Rush the starting quarterback for Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers. Atlanta's third-string QB took first-team reps on Friday and will make his second straight start in Week 2.
"Cooper will start," Stefanski confirmed before giving an update on Penix's status. "Again, it's a progression. Feel really confident in the plan. Feel real confident in what we've done and what Mike has done on the field and medically. He's told you, like I've told you, when he's ready, he'll be ready."
Stefanski said that Michael Penix Jr. would be inactive for the second game in a row, while Tua Tagovailoa is officially doubtful for Sunday's NFC South showdown.
The Falcons will
look to undrafted quarterback Jack Strand to serve as Rush's backup in Week 2. Strand played well in the preseason and we wouldn't be surprised to see the rookie make his NFL debut on Sunday if Rush struggles.
"Great challenge in front of us in our place," Stefanski said of playing against a talented Panthers. team on Sunday.
Watch Stefanski's full press conference, as shared by the team's YouTube channel below.
Rush will look to snap the Panthers' three-game winning streak over the Falcons in Week 2. Sunday's game starts at 1 p.m. ET.
This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Falcons name starting QB for Week 2, list rookie as backup
