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Tua Tagovailoa ruled out of Falcons' opener with oblique injury, Cooper Rush steps in against Steelers
Fox News • • general
Key Points:
- Atlanta Falcons starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa will miss at least Week 1 due to an oblique injury and has been ruled out as "week-to-week" by head coach Kevin Stefanski.
- Michael Penix Jr., who was already sidelined, will also miss the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers; Penix is recovering from an ACL tear and aims to return fully healthy in 2026.
- Veteran quarterback Cooper Rush has been named the Falcons' Week 1 starter, stepping in after Tagovailoa's injury and Penix's absence.
- Rush has eight NFL seasons of experience, mostly with the Dallas Cowboys, and spent last year with the Baltimore Ravens before signing with the Falcons.
- Undrafted rookie Jack Strand will serve as Rush’s backup, impressing fans during preseason with strong performances including 306 yards and a touchdown.
