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Falcons name Cooper Rush starting quarterback for Week 1 against Steelers

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 11, 2026, 5:37 PM

Last updated Sep 11, 2026

Falcons name Cooper Rush starting quarterback for Week 1 against Steelers

Summary

The Atlanta Falcons have ruled out Tua Tagovailoa for the season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers due to an oblique injury sustained in practice. With Tagovailoa sidelined and Michael Penix Jr. still recovering from an injury of his own, Cooper Rush is set to start at quarterback. Rush completed 62.5 percent of his passes during the preseason, recording 254 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. Jack Strand will serve as the backup quarterback on the active roster. The Falcons face the Steelers on Sunday with both their primary and secondary quarterback options unavailable for the contest.

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Status Watch

•Tua Tagovailoa is out for Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
•Cooper Rush will start at quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons.
•Michael Penix Jr. remains unavailable to suit up due to injury.
•Jack Strand is designated as the team's backup quarterback.
•The Falcons' offense will be led by Rush against the Pittsburgh Steelers defense.

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