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Analyst predicts rookie Jack Strand will start half of Falcons 2026 season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 5, 2026, 6:32 PM

Last updated Sep 5, 2026

Analyst predicts rookie Jack Strand will start half of Falcons 2026 season

Summary

The Atlanta Falcons enter their September 13, 2026, opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers without a publicly declared starting quarterback. Head coach Kevin Stefanski is expected to address the media Monday, likely naming either Michael Penix Jr. or Tua Tagovailoa to the role. Despite the veteran competition, an NFL.com analyst projects that undrafted rookie Jack Strand will secure the starting position for more than half of the team's games this season. Strand earned a spot on the initial 53-man roster following a strong preseason performance against the Indianapolis Colts, where he recorded 212 passing yards and two touchdowns. The Falcons currently carry four quarterbacks on the roster, including Cooper Rush, though competition remains fluid as the team prepares to face the Steelers at 1 p.m. ET next Sunday.

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Status Watch

•The Falcons open the 2026 NFL season against the Pittsburgh Steelers on September 13.
•Jack Strand recorded 212 passing yards and two touchdowns in a preseason game against the Indianapolis Colts.
•Atlanta currently holds four quarterbacks on its roster: Michael Penix Jr., Tua Tagovailoa, Jack Strand, and Cooper Rush.
•Kevin Stefanski is expected to announce the starting quarterback early next week.
•Analysts project Jack Strand could replace the starter due to his ability to push the ball downfield.

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