October 1, 2026
ATLANTA (AP) — The Atlanta Falcons' opening loss at Pittsburgh only added more uncertainty to the quarterback question that has persisted since the start of training camp.
Cooper Rush's performance in the Falcons' 20-13 loss to the Steelers on Sunday had some fans wondering why undrafted rookie Jack Strand wasn't given an opportunity and more fans asking when Michael Penix Jr. and Tua Tagovailoa will be ready to play. Rush threw two interceptions, including T.J. Watt's pick-6 in the fourth quarter. He completed 12 of 22 passes for 143 yards and a touchdown.
Rush was named the starter on Friday after Tagovailoa was ruled out with an oblique injury. Rush started despite having back spasms on Saturday. Coach Kevin Stefanski said Rush was close to full health, but the conservative game plan with an emphasis on short passes placed too much of a burden on running back Bijan Robinson.
Stefanski said Monday he had no update on Tagovailoa or on Penix, who did not play in the preseason as he continues his recovery from a torn ligament in his left knee that ended his 2025 season. Penix was cleared for full team drills late in training camp.
Both Tagovailoa and Penix were inactive against the Steelers, and it is not known if either will return for next Sunday's home opener against Carolina.
“I’ll obviously hope to have more clarity on all of our positions via, you know, just injuries and whatnot, later today, the next few days,” Stefanski said.
Rush was sacked four times and had six passes deflected. It wasn't a strong argument to be considered a long-term answer at quarterback, but Rush said he took pride in starting after the back spasms one day before the game.
“I was able to get out there and play, and I was proud of that,” Rush said before adding, “Wish I played better.”
Stefanski said Rush “battled” but needed more help. Atlanta's nine penalties for 96 yards and two turnovers while forcing only one made it difficult to win, despite a strong effort by the Falcons' defense.
Robinson was Atlanta's leading rusher and receiver, compiling a combined 173 yards. Robinson had 21 carries for 83 yards and eight receptions for 90 yards, including a 23-yard touchdown on a short pass from Rush.
Brian Robinson, the only other running back on the active roster, had nine carries for 31 yards.
The conservative passing game negated the effectiveness of Kyle Pitts and Drake London. Rush underthrew a pass intended for Pitts, who was not targeted again. London had two receptions for 29 yards on four targets.
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