Atlanta quarterback Michael Penix Jr. continues his rehabilitation from a torn ACL and has not received medical approval for full-contact team practice sessions, according to new Atlanta head coach Kevin Stefanski’s Wednesday announcement.
The 26-year-old quarterback is making excellent progress in his recovery and will take part in position-specific training and smaller 7-on-7 practice sessions during organized team activities while he awaits complete medical approval for his left knee, Stefanski explained.
“He’s not 100 percent, but he’s exactly where he needs to be,” Stefanski said.
When Penix receives full clearance, the quarterback selected eighth overall in the 2024 first-round draft is anticipated to battle with newly acquired quarterback Tua Tagovailoa for the starting position.
Penix suffered the campaign-ending knee injury during Week 11 of 2025, which marked his first year beginning the season as Atlanta’s primary quarterback. He took over the starting role from Kirk Cousins partway through his 2024 debut season.
Throughout 14 professional games with 12 starts, Penix has achieved a 59.6% completion rate, throwing for 2,757 yards with 12 touchdown passes and six interceptions.
Tagovailoa, age 28, posted a 44-32 win-loss record during his time with the Miami Dolphins, completing 68.0% of his attempts for 18,166 yards, 120 touchdowns and 59 interceptions across six seasons.
Both signal-callers are adapting to a fresh offensive system under Stefanski and offensive coordinator Tommy Rees. Atlanta’s quarterback room also includes Trevor Siemian and undrafted rookie Jack Strand.
