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Michael Penix Jr. returns to practice ahead of Falcons season opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 9:09 PM

Last updated Aug 22, 2026

Michael Penix Jr. returns to practice ahead of Falcons season opener

Summary

Michael Penix Jr. has been cleared to return to full practice with the Atlanta Falcons just weeks before the 2026 NFL season begins. Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed that Penix will compete for the starting quarterback position against Tua Tagovailoa. Penix is coming off a partially torn ACL injury from November 2025, and he expressed the mental challenges he faced during his recovery. With one preseason game left, both quarterbacks aim to establish themselves before the September 13 opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

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Status Watch

•Penix was cleared for 11-on-11 practice ahead of preseason.
•He is competing for the starting QB job against Tua Tagovailoa.
•Penix suffered a partially torn ACL in November 2025.
•The Falcons play the Steelers on September 13.
•Penix highlighted mental hurdles during his recovery.

Latest Updates

9:09 PMYahoo Sports — Former Washington football star cleared to return to action
8:47 PMYahoo Sports — Michael Penix Jr. gets huge boost in Falcons quarterback battle

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