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FalconsMichael Penix Jr. Returns to Field in Phase II Showing ACL Progress

The step raises the chance of an earlier quarterback battle with Tua Tagovailoa once he is fully cleared.

Overview

  • The Falcons shared a team video Tuesday of Penix throwing to Drake London, and a spokesperson confirmed he is taking part in Phase II workouts in Flowery Branch.
  • The quarterback is about six months removed from a left ACL tear suffered Nov. 16, 2025 against the Panthers, followed by surgery a few weeks later in what was his third ACL injury.
  • Phase II permits only individual and small-group drills with coaches, so the throws signal rehab progress without indicating readiness for full 7‑on‑7 or 11‑on‑11 practice.
  • Atlanta signed Tua Tagovailoa in March to a one-year deal reported at about $1.3 million to compete for the job, and the team has not set a return timetable even as Penix has said he expects to be ready for Week 1.
  • Penix, the No. 8 pick in 2024, has 12 career starts with 2,757 passing yards and 12 touchdowns, and his next hurdle is clearance for full summer work that would trigger a true training-camp competition.