The Atlanta Falcons signed veteran quarterback Cooper Rush on Wednesday after Tua Tagovailoa was sidelined with a back injury during training camp. Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed Tagovailoa's absence but did not specify the severity, though ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the issue is a tight back. Stefanski expects Tagovailoa to return 'sooner rather than later.'
The Falcons also released Trevor Siemian earlier in the day, leaving Jack Strand, an undrafted rookie, as the only healthy quarterback on the roster before Rush's signing. Meanwhile, Michael Penix Jr., recovering from a torn ACL, has yet to participate in full team drills but has been doing individual and 7-on-7 work. Penix, who has a history of ACL injuries, emphasized caution in his recovery process.
Rush, 32, brings experience from stints with the Dallas Cowboys and Baltimore Ravens, where he compiled a 10-7 record as a starter. Tagovailoa, acquired this offseason to compete with Penix, has a history of injuries but remains the likely favorite for the starting role once healthy. Penix, drafted eighth overall in 2024, showed promise in limited action last season but faces uncertainty due to his injury.
The Falcons' quarterback situation remains fluid, with Stefanski acknowledging the risks of early-camp injuries. The team will monitor Penix's progress and Tagovailoa's recovery as they prepare for the season.