Falcons vs Panthers: What happened to Tua Tagovailoa?
· Yahoo Sports
The 2026 NFL season has brought an early quarterback situation for the Atlanta Falcons. Tua Tagovailoa was named the team’s starter after competing with Michael Penix Jr. throughout training camp and the preseason. His addition gave Atlanta an experienced option at quarterback while Penix continued his recovery from a knee injury.
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Tagovailoa was sidelined before Atlanta’s season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers, forcing Cooper Rush into the starting role.
The Falcons now return home for their Week 2 matchup against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, but Tagovailoa will again be on the sidelines
Tua Tagovailoa listed doubtful with oblique injury
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn ImagesTagovailoa is listed as doubtful for Sunday’s game against the Carolina Panthers after missing the entire week of practice with an oblique injury. He suffered the injury during Thursday’s practice before Atlanta’s season opener and has not returned to the field since.
Michael Penix Jr. was also ruled out for the second consecutive game as he continues his recovery from a knee injury. His absence leaves the Falcons without their preferred starting quarterback option for Sunday’s matchup.
The Falcons will have to monitor Tagovailoa’s progress through Sunday before his status becomes official.
Cooper Rush confirmed to start for Falcons
Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed Friday that Rush will make his second consecutive start against the Panthers. Rookie Jack Strand will serve as his backup, leaving Atlanta with two available quarterbacks for Sunday’s game.
Rush completed 12 of 22 passes for 143 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions in his Week 1 start against Pittsburgh. Atlanta will now rely on him again while Tagovailoa continues to recover from his oblique injury.
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