Overview
- The Falcons have not named a starter and scheduled a “starting quarterback” press conference for Wednesday, Sept. 9, signaling the team will reveal its Week 1 QB by then.
- General manager Ian Cunningham has said the decision is still open while coaches continue to evaluate all four quarterbacks on the 53‑man roster.
- Michael Penix Jr. was recently cleared for full 11‑on‑11 work after a 2025 ACL tear but did not play in the preseason finale and remains under close medical and performance review.
- If the Falcons pick Tua Tagovailoa he is expected to have a short leash and could be replaced quickly if he struggles, while Cooper Rush and rookie Jack Strand remain immediate backups.
- Keeping four quarterbacks reflects Atlanta’s insurance strategy against injury and uncertainty and means the Week 1 choice will shape in‑season roster moves, cap planning and the club’s evaluation of Penix as a long‑term option.