Michael Penix Jr. is focused on his recovery and preparation for the Atlanta Falcons’ starting quarterback competition, according to a May 19 report from Flowery Branch, Georgia.
Penix is returning from a season-ending knee injury and ACL surgery performed in early November. He has been cleared to throw since March and participated in organized team activities wearing a helmet and jersey. Head coach Kevin Stefanski said Tuesday that Penix is cleared for individual drills and 7-on-7 work, but not yet for full team drills. “My goal has always been to be ready for Week 1,” Penix said, adding that he understands the importance of not rushing his rehabilitation process.
Teammates have noticed his progress. “I’m really happy for him,” Chris Lindstrom said about Penix’s return to practice in a limited capacity. “I know he’s been through so much physically in his career. So, for him to have this kind of moment coming back, I’m really happy for him, and he’s really worked hard. He looks great.” The coaching staff has adjusted its approach due to differences between Penix’s situation and that of Tua Tagovailoa, who enters the offseason healthy.
Stefanski explained the team’s methodical rotation between quarterbacks during practice: “One guy will be up first for one period and then switch for the next period… because the truth is that we are trying to get the best version of all of our players.” He credited offensive coordinator Tommy Rees with being intentional about rep distribution so each quarterback can learn the system while supporting evaluation efforts.
Other notes from practice included updates on several players recovering from injuries—such as Billy Bowman Jr., Troy Andersen, and Bralen Trice—and observations about defensive rotations with various safeties and linebackers filling key roles due to absences or limited participation. On offense, C Ryan Neuzil continued at starting center while undrafted free agent James Brockermeyer handled most backup reps at center during OTAs.
Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich was absent from Tuesday’s session while participating in the NFL’s Accelerator Program aimed at increasing diversity among coaches and executives. Stefanski said of Ulbrich, “I think it is important that we as coaches take advantage of those moments sitting across from a president or owner… I think he is more than deserving of that opportunity when it comes.” The Atlanta Falcons compete in the National Football League’s NFC South division after joining as an expansion team in 1965; they are based in Atlanta, Georgia; reached Super Bowls twice—in 1998 and 2016—and feature Freddie the Falcon as their mascot, according to the official website.
