The Atlanta Falcons already entered Week 1 with an unusual amount of uncertainty at quarterback, and the situation could be getting even worse.

Tua Tagovailoa is dealing with back discomfort, Michael Penix Jr. is already ruled out for Sunday’s matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, and Atlanta could suddenly find itself relying on its third- or even fourth-string quarterback.

Tua Tagovailoa is now a major concern

Aug 28, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) reacts as he exits the field after the game against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

The Falcons named Tagovailoa their Week 1 starter on Monday after an offseason competition with Penix. The veteran was expected to provide stability while Penix continued recovering from the knee injury that ended his 2025 season.

Now, however, Tagovailoa’s availability is something to watch closely.

That is obviously concerning for Atlanta. The Falcons signed Tagovailoa specifically because they wanted an experienced quarterback capable of taking control of the offense, and losing him before the season even begins would completely change their plans.

Tagovailoa has dealt with back issues before, including back tightness during training camp, although he was able to return to full participation relatively quickly at that time.

Falcons could be forced to turn to Cooper Rush

Aug 28, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Cooper Rush (13) looks on against the Miami Dolphins during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Penix is already unavailable for Sunday’s game, meaning Cooper Rush was expected to serve as Tagovailoa’s immediate backup. Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed that Penix would be inactive for the opener.

But Atlanta actually kept four quarterbacks on its initial 53-man roster: Tagovailoa, Penix, Rush and undrafted rookie Jack Strand.

That decision suddenly looks extremely important.

The Falcons explained that carrying four quarterbacks provided insurance because both Tagovailoa and Penix had dealt with health concerns during the offseason. Rush played well enough in the preseason to earn a roster spot, while Strand impressed the coaching staff enough to remain in Atlanta as well.

If Tagovailoa cannot play, Rush would presumably get the first opportunity. But if the injury situation gets worse, Atlanta could eventually be forced to turn to Strand.

For a team that thought it had finally settled its quarterback situation, the Falcons could be heading into Week 1 with major questions at the most important position on the field.