Atlanta Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is sidelined due to a "flare-up" of an undisclosed injury, with sources indicating it's a tight back. Coach Kevin Stefanski expressed optimism for his return "sooner rather than later," and sources suggest the injury is not serious, with an expected return next week. This situation, coupled with Michael Penix Jr.'s ongoing recovery from ACL surgery, has prompted the Falcons to sign veteran quarterback Cooper Rush. The team also released Trevor Siemian with a non-football injury designation, leaving undrafted rookie Jack Strand as the only fully cleared quarterback.

Penix, the team's Week 1 starter last season, has not yet been cleared for full team sessions following his November surgery. Stefanski stated uncertainty regarding Penix's return timeline, deferring to medical personnel. The Falcons had anticipated Siemian as their third-string option, but now Strand is the sole healthy quarterback at the start of training camp. Coach Stefanski acknowledged the unpredictability of the NFL, referencing the shortage.

Rush, 32, brings experience from eight seasons with the Dallas Cowboys and four games with the Baltimore Ravens last year. The Falcons are looking to bolster their quarterback depth amidst