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Surgeon Calls Michael Penix Jr.'s Rebuilt ACL 'Amazing' as Contact Clearance Remains Pending

The positive medical verdict eases long‑term knee worry as live contact approval will decide Atlanta's Week 1 quarterback plan.

Overview

  • Multiple outlets reported Wednesday that Penix was told by his surgeon that his repaired ACL is 'amazing' and that he should not have further knee problems.
  • Penix said he can do nearly all drills but remains un‑cleared for contact work and summed up his limits by saying, 'I can do just about anything but take a hit.'
  • Coach Kevin Stefanski praised Penix's progress with under‑center dropbacks, but the quarterback has been restricted to 7‑on‑7 and has not taken 11‑on‑11 team reps.
  • Tua Tagovailoa has been named the preseason starter and holds the practical edge for Week 1 while the Falcons wait for Penix to be cleared and rebuild full mental trust in the knee.
  • Penix's long college and NFL injury history keeps the Falcons cautious and creates roster risks and trade speculation if Tagovailoa performs well once live reps and medical clearance occur.