Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. Making Progress in ACL Rehab

No clear timeline yet for Penix's return, but coach says he's 'where he needs to be' in recovery process.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 7:54pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a football quarterback in motion, with the player's body and uniform broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in the Falcons' red and black colors.The competition for the Falcons' starting QB job remains an intriguing puzzle as Michael Penix Jr. continues his recovery from a torn ACL.Today in Miami

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who suffered a torn ACL last November, is making progress in his recovery but there is still no definitive timeline for his return to the field, according to head coach Kevin Stefanski. Penix, the team's 2024 first-round draft pick, will compete with free agent signee Tua Tagovailoa for the starting QB job once he is healthy.

Why it matters

The Falcons are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season, and the health and performance of their quarterback position will be crucial to their success. Penix showed promise as the starter before his injury, but Tagovailoa's arrival adds an intriguing dynamic to the competition.

The details

Penix started 9 games for the Falcons in 2025 before suffering a torn ACL on November 16th against the Carolina Panthers. Coach Stefanski said Penix is 'right where he needs to be' in his recovery, but did not provide a specific timeline for his return. Tagovailoa, the former Miami Dolphins QB, was signed in free agency and will have the opportunity to lead the offense this offseason while Penix continues his rehab.

  • Penix suffered the torn ACL on November 16, 2025.
  • Penix started 9 games for the Falcons in the 2025 season.

The players

Michael Penix Jr.

The Falcons' 2024 first-round draft pick, who started 9 games for the team in 2025 before suffering a season-ending torn ACL.

Tua Tagovailoa

The former Miami Dolphins quarterback who signed with the Falcons in free agency and will compete with Penix for the starting job once Penix is healthy.

Kevin Stefanski

The head coach of the Atlanta Falcons.

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What they’re saying

“Michael Penix Jr. is right where he needs to be in his recovery.”

— Kevin Stefanski, Head Coach, Atlanta Falcons

What’s next

The Falcons will continue to monitor Penix's progress in his ACL rehab, and the competition between him and Tua Tagovailoa for the starting QB job will intensify once Penix is cleared to return.

The takeaway

The Falcons' quarterback situation bears close watching as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season. Penix's recovery and the battle with Tagovailoa will be a key storyline to follow as the team prepares for the 2026 campaign.