Sports · October 14, 2026
Michael Penix Jr. injury update: Falcons QB likely to start this week vs. Bears, but status could change
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is expected to start in Week 6 against the Chicago Bears, according to head coach Kevin Stefanski. Penix suffered a rib injury during a sack in a Week 5 overtime loss to the Baltimore Ravens and was replaced by Tua Tagovailoa for the overtime period. After an MRI, Stefanski stated that Penix is feeling better and will practice in a limited capacity as the team monitors his progress throughout the week. Despite the limited official listing, reports indicate Penix took all first-team reps on Wednesday and expressed confidence in his ability to play.
Read the original coverage
- CBS SportsSports network
Michael Penix Jr. injury update: Falcons QB likely to start this week vs. Bears, but status could change
Read at CBS Sports ↗ - ESPNSports network
Falcons' Penix on track to start vs. Bears, QB says rib injury 'good'
Read at ESPN ↗ - Fox NewsMainstream
Michael Penix Jr likely starting for Falcons against Bears despite rib injury, Kevin Stefanski says
Read at Fox News ↗
Reported by multiple outlets
- Michael Penix Jr. suffered a rib injury during the Week 5 game against the Baltimore Ravens.
- Penix was sacked by Tavius Robinson late in regulation, leading to the injury.
- Head coach Kevin Stefanski stated Penix will start against the Chicago Bears if everything goes according to plan.
- Penix was officially listed as a limited participant in Wednesday's practice.
- Tua Tagovailoa replaced Penix during the overtime period and threw a game-clinching interception.
Reported by only some outlets
- ESPN reported that Penix took all first-team reps in practice despite his limited listing.
- Penix personally told reporters he 'felt good' at practice and plans to play.
- Adam Schefter reported on 'The Pat McAfee Show' that the injury did not appear long-term.
- The Falcons started the season 0-2 with Cooper Rush at quarterback.
- The Falcons are 2-1 since Penix returned as the starter in Week 3.
Confirmed
- Penix suffered a rib injury against the Ravens.
- Penix was limited in practice on Wednesday.
- Kevin Stefanski stated Penix is on track to start Sunday barring setbacks.
- Tua Tagovailoa finished the Week 5 game for Atlanta.
Reported
- Penix took all the first-team reps in practice. (ESPN)
- Penix's rib injury did not look like a long-term injury. (Adam Schefter)
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