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Michael Penix Jr. discusses mental challenges returning from injury

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 15, 2026, 4:00 PM

Last updated Aug 15, 2026

Michael Penix Jr. discusses mental challenges returning from injury
Summary

Michael Penix Jr. addressed the mental hurdles he faces while recovering from his third knee surgery. The No. 8 overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft is not yet cleared for 11-on-11 practices as the season approaches. Despite being informed by his doctor that his ACL recovery is going well, doubts remain about his ability to reclaim the starting position from veteran Tua Tagovailoa. As he prepares for the regular season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers on September 13, Penix emphasized the mental aspect of recovery, recalling his previous injuries.

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Status Watch
  • •Michael Penix Jr. recovering from a partially torn ACL.
  • •Doctor reports successful recovery, but mental hurdles persist.
  • •Not cleared for 11-on-11 practices as of mid-August.
  • •Veteran Tua Tagovailoa currently positioned for the starting role.
  • •Falcons' regular season begins September 13 against the Steelers.
Latest Updates
  • 4:00 PMYahoo Sports — Michael Penix Jr. discusses mental hurdles in return from injury
What they're saying
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Michael Penix Jr. opened up on the mental hurdles he needs to clear as he returns from a third knee surgery.

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