RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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0 Share Newsweek is a Trust Project member See more of our trusted coverage when you search. Prefer Newsweek on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search. Atlanta Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski provided an optimistic update on his team's young quarterback, Michael Penix Jr., who was recovering from the season-ending injury he suffered last year.
On Saturday, NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported that Stefanski said that Penix Jr. had been cleared for the team's 11-on-11 practice on Monday, bringing a significant sign of his ability to play. According to ESPN , he'd previously been participating in individual workouts and 7-on-7 periods since the team's OTAs.
Penix exited his team's Week 11 game against the Carolina Panthers with a left knee injury and later underwent season-ending knee surgery to repair a partially torn left ACL.
This offseason, Atlanta signed former Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to ensure they'd have a capable starter in case Penix Jr. couldn't return right away, or the injury plagued him.
More news: Broncos’ Bo Nix Gets Honest About Injury Return After Preseason Loss
Tagovailoa had limited time on the field this preseason, debuting for the Falcons in their loss to the Denver Broncos. In that outing, he completed 3 of 5 passes for 22 yards, with no touchdowns or interceptions thrown.
That performance probably didn't inspire many when it comes to Tagovailoa as the starting quarterback, and now the competition may heat up with Penix Jr.'s return. Before his injury took him out last season, he started nine games and threw for 1,982 yards and nine touchdowns with three interceptions.
Atlanta finished last season at 8-9 in the NFC South, tying with the Panthers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Ultimately, the Panthers won the tiebreaker over the Falcons and Tampa Bay, and many believe these three teams are once again vying for the division.
A healthy roster will go a long way, and Stefanski having a clear QB1 could be a major part of Atlanta achieving a successful season. Having the best option at quarterback is essential, and a healthy competition between the veteran Tagovailoa and the team's former No. 8 pick should put the team on track to name the ideal Week 1 starter.
More news: Sean Payton Addresses Bo Nix as Preseason Starter After Loss to Packers
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