The Atlanta Falcons are having a shocking start to the 2026 season before even playing a game. Specifically, the quarterback position is already in a state of disarray.
Michael Penix Jr. remains out as he continues to recover from an ACL injury. That led to Tua Tagovailoa to be named the starter, only for him to go down in practice this week with an oblique injury.
Thus, Cooper Rush was thrust into the starting role. Now even he is dealing with a potential setback.
Insider reveals Cooper Rush injury update
Josh Kendall covers the Falcons for The Athletic and shared news that may have Falcons fans feeling hopeless ahead of Sunday’s showdown with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
In an unreal turn of events, Rush is now dealing with back spasms less than 24 hours before the season opener. The team claims Rush is still expected to start.
What happens if he can’t go? That leaves undrafted rookie Jack Strand as the only remaining option. Being a Week 1 starter in the NFL would surely be a big step up after his career at Division II Minnesota State-Moorhead.
Rush appears to be good to go, even if back spasms can be an unpredictable ailment. Falcons fans are just left wondering if anyone in the quarterback room is capable of being the starter for this team.
If Rush does indeed start, he can prove that he belongs as the starter at least until former No. 8 overall pick Penix returns to full health. The veteran did go 4-4 as a starter with the Dallas Cowboys in 2024, filling in for Dak Prescott.
For now, he may just want to rest up and ensure he is able to play all four quarters against the Steelers.