Falcons' Michael Penix Jr. says he's ‘really close' but not yet ready for return

Michael Penix Jr. says he is "really close" to returning, but the Atlanta Falcons will not rush him into NFL action. Atlanta has already named Tua Tagovailoa as its Week 1 starter against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Penix underwent surgery after suffering a partially torn ACL during the 2025 season. He missed all three preseason games and only gained clearance for full-team work during the final week of camp. Penix said he gave coach Kevin Stefanski an honest assessment of his condition. "I just told him I'm not where I want to be right now," Penix said Monday. "And I want to be able to be 100% so I can help the team win football games. And I'm really close. Really close." MORE: Why Michael Penix Jr. wasn't rushed as Falcons name Tua Tagovailoa starter The third-year quarterback emphasized that physical clearance does not automatically mean he feels ready for an NFL game. Penix wants confidence in his knee before returning to live competition. "I want to be stronger," Penix said. "I want to be able to be out there and give the team 100%…" He added, "I want to make sure whenever I am out there, I'm 100%, and there's no doubt in my mind that I trust my knee and that I trust being able to go out there and help this team win football games." Falcons put Penix's recovery ahead of Week 1 Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) and quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (9) warm up before a game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters) Penix has three knee surgeries in his history, making Atlanta's cautious approach understandable. He also acknowledged returning too soon earlier in his career and not feeling fully confident physically. "If I don't feel like I can do that, that's not fair for this team," Penix said. "That's not fair for this organization." Tagovailoa benefited from Penix's limited preparation throughout camp. The veteran handled most 11-on-11 work and started Atlanta's first and final preseason games. Offensive coordinator Tommy Rees praised Tagovailoa's experience and field vision. "He can see the field really well, and if the defense makes a mistake, he can see that and exploit it." MORE: Puka Nacua suspension could be avoided, per NFL insider That experience gives Atlanta a workable short-term option while Penix continues building toward a full return. For the time being, the Falcons also have Cooper Rush available behind Tagovailoa. The decision protects Atlanta's larger quarterback plan. Penix needs consistent full-speed work before the team can reasonably expect his best performance. Penix remains focused on reaching that point. "I'm really close" captures the situation clearly, but Atlanta will wait until he feels fully ready.