Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. not yet cleared for 11-on-11 drills

Field Level Media|published: Wed 27th May, 14:48 2026

Nov 16, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (9) throws the ball in the first quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is not yet ready for 11-on-11 drills as he recovers from a torn ACL, new Atlanta coach Kevin Stefanski said Wednesday.

Penix, 26, is "doing outstanding" and will participate in individual drills and 7-on-7 work at OTAs while awaiting full medical clearance on his left knee, Stefanski said.

"He's not 100 percent, but he's exactly where he needs to be," Stefanski said.

Once Penix is ready, the 2024 first-round draft pick (eighth overall) is expected to compete with offseason signee Tua Tagovailoa for the starting job.

Penix sustained the season-ending injury in Week 11 in 2025, the first season he began as the Atlanta starter. He replaced Kirk Cousins as the starter midway through his 2024 rookie campaign.

Across 14 career games (12 starts), Penix has completed 59.6% of his passes for 2,757 yards, 12 touchdowns and six interceptions.

Tagovailoa, 28, compiled a 44-32 record while completing 68.0% of his passes for 18,166 yards, 120 TDs and 59 picks in six seasons with the Miami Dolphins.

Both quarterbacks are entering a new offensive scheme led by Stefanski and offensive coordinator Tommy Rees. The Falcons also have QBs Trevor Siemian and undrafted rookie Jack Strand on the roster.

--Field Level Media

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