Kevin Stefanski Reveals Quarterback Plans for Preseason Finale

Atlanta Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski has announced that quarterback Michael Penix Jr. will not participate in the team's final preseason game against the Miami Dolphins. This decision comes after Penix recently returned to full-team drills following recovery from surgery for a partially torn ACL.

Stefanski confirmed that Tua Tagovailoa will start the game at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium, followed by Cooper Rush and rookie Jack Strand. He noted that Penix's recent participation in team drills was a significant step in his recovery, but the focus will remain on his progress rather than rushing him into game action.

Tagovailoa's performance has been under scrutiny, having completed only 3-of-5 passes for 22 yards in the preseason opener against the Denver Broncos. Stefanski expressed confidence in Tagovailoa's ability to adapt to the new offensive system and emphasized the importance of learning from past mistakes. The decision on the starting quarterback for the regular-season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers remains undecided.