Penix Out for Falcons’ Opener | NFL News

0:00On September 7th, so, the Atlanta Falcons are gearing up for their season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers, and it looks like Michael Penix Jr. won't be under center. He's been medically clear for practice since August after that ACL tear, but the teams decided he'll be inactive for week one. Head Coach Kevin Stofanski is confident in the plan for Penix's eventual return, but there's no firm date yet. This whole situation stems from Penix's injury last November against the Carolina Panthers, which was actually his third ACL tear, though his first on, his left knee. He was having a solid season before that, throwing for almost 2,000 yards with nine touchdowns and three interceptions in nine games. To address the quarterback situation after Penix went down, the Falcons brought in two at Tagelviloa on a one-year deal worth $1.2 million back in March. He and Penix have been in a bit of a competition through practices, with Penix getting more reps in some drills and Tagelviloa in others.

1:00Tagelviloa saw some action in the preseason games, but it wasn't exactly lighting the world on fire. Meanwhile, Penix, even after being cleared, hasn't been on the field for game action. Stofanski mentioned Penix is putting in all the work behind the scenes, in the training room, weight room, and meeting rooms, doing everything he can to get ready. The Falcons are looking to break a long-losing streak against the Steelers, dating back to 2006. Kickoff is this Sunday at 1pm, on Fox 5. We'll have to see when Penix officially gets the green light to play. I'm Corey with the story, that's your NFL news today update, AI powered, and always on.