Atlanta quarterback Michael Penix Jr. told reporters after Friday’s minicamp that he remains on the rehab timeline following a left‑ACL reconstruction in November. The 26‑year‑old, who missed the final weeks of the 2025 season, said he isn’t at 100 percent yet but expects to join full 11‑on‑11 drills when camp opens in late July. He also noted that his medical clearance will come next week.

Penix’s recovery matters because the Falcons signed former Miami starter Tua Tagovailoa this offseason to battle for the No. 1 job. Coaches Alex Van Pelt and Kevin Stefanski warned that a true quarterback competition won’t materialize until both players are on equal footing in practice. Both have shown flashiness in limited reps, raising fan intrigue. Until then, the team will focus on building a foundation rather than assigning roles.

In two seasons as a starter, Penix completed 59.6% of his passes for 2,757 yards, 12 touchdowns and six interceptions. Those numbers, combined with his eighth‑overall selection in the 2024 draft, give Atlanta a young leader who could anchor the offense if his knee holds up. Durability will be tested early. The Falcons enter preseason with the quarterback position still undecided.