Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. 'where he needs to be' in ACL rehab

Field Level Media|published: Wed 8th April, 15:38 2026

NFL: Carolina Panthers at Atlanta Falcons

Nov 16, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (9) looks for an open receiver in the second half against the Carolina Panthers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

There is still no clear timetable for Michael Penix Jr.'s recovery from the torn ACL that ended the Falcons quarterback's 2025 season, coach Kevin Stefanski said Wednesday.

He added that Penix is "right where he needs to be" in his recovery from the injury sustained Nov. 16 vs. Carolina.

Stefanski has previously said that Penix, the eighth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, will battle free-agent signee and former Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa for the starting job once Penix is healthy.

Penix started all nine games he played 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.

With both QBs entering a new offensive scheme led by Stefanski and offensive coordinator Tommy Rees, Tagovailoa will have an uncontested chance to lead the offense this offseason until Penix is able to return.

--Field Level Media

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