Falcons' Week 1 QB debate drags on as Penix's torn ACL clouds plan

With nine days until the season opener, Atlanta still hasn't named a starting quarterback. The competition reportedly centers on Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr., but Penix's torn ACL has limited his ability to compete; if he's not ready, options include Tagovailoa or Cooper Rush, and even undrafted rookie Jack Strand could be considered. A starting QB press conference is scheduled for next Wednesday, with a decision likely by Tuesday. The piece also notes Tagovailoa’s inexpensive base salary and the possibility of the Falcons cutting him while he still collects the Dolphins’ $54 million for 2026.