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Michael Penix Jr. updates health status amid recovery from knee surgery

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 13, 2026, 11:10 AM

Last updated Aug 13, 2026

Michael Penix Jr. updates health status amid recovery from knee surgery

Summary

Michael Penix Jr. is making progress in recovering from a torn ACL that sidelined him last season. Speaking to reporters on August 5, he expressed optimism about his recovery but confirmed he is not yet cleared for contact. Penix, who underwent surgery on November 25, has been working on building strength and confidence in his knee. Coach Kevin Stefanski remains optimistic about Penix's return, with four weeks left until he might be cleared for full participation in 11-on-11 drills. As the preseason progresses, Tua Tagovailoa will start in the upcoming opener against Denver, but the competition for the starting quarterback role remains open for Penix.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Penix underwent ACL surgery on November 25.
•He is currently not cleared for contact drills.
•Coach Stefanski is optimistic about Penix's return.
•Penix participated in 7-on-7 drills during camp.
•Tagovailoa will start the preseason opener against Denver.

Latest Updates

11:10 AMYahoo Sports — “Anything but Take a Hit”: Michael Penix Jr. Drops Fresh Health Update Amidst Uncertain Return Timeline Post Surgery

What they're saying

"
Michael Penix Jr. ’s knee injury from last season is still the biggest storyline hanging over the Atlanta Falcons this training camp, and that’s not surprising given everything he’s been through since college.
— Yahoo Sports

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