The Atlanta Falcons are preparing to play their preseason opener against the Denver Broncos on Friday, but quarterback Michael Penix Jr. won't be suiting up. The former No. 8 overall pick has still not been cleared for contact as he works his way back from ACL surgery. The Falcons named Tua Tagovailoa as their starting quarterback against the Broncos, but Penix is still in the mix to be the starter for Week 1. On Wednesday, the third-year QB provided an intriguing update on his knee injury. Penix said his doctor told him that his ACL is "amazing" and that he should never have another issue for the rest of his career, per ESPN's reporter Marc Raimondi.
Penix said the doctor told him his ACL is amazing and he should never have another problem with it the rest of his career. #Falcons — Marc Raimondi (@marcraimondi) August 12, 2026 Penix has had two prior ACL surgeries, but they were both on his right knee. Last season, he tore his left ACL for the first time. The Falcons have been pleased with Penix's progress, and despite the fact that he looks to be fully healthy, they're taking their time before clearing him for contact. If there's anyone who knows what it takes to overcome this type of injury, it's Penix. "I can do just about everything except for take a hit," Penix said after Wednesday's practice. "That's what we're trying to avoid right now." Falcons quarterbacks coach Alex Van Pelt recently praised Penix's work under center and overall footwork, which is a great sign for a guy coming off of his third serious knee surgery. "He looks really good," Van Pelt said of Penix. "He's throwing really well right now. I love his footwork. We have done a lot of under center work with him during the 7-on-7 periods." Penix even earned praise for his willingness to be open with the media regarding his injury.
I respect the hell out of this from Michael Penix Jr. When I asked him about the progress he's made on his under-center work, during his answer he said "like you know." Simple, but it's actually pretty profound. We don't shout out athletes that do this enough, especially with… pic.twitter.com/AASHVFGEoc — Maria Martin (@Ria_Martin) August 12, 2026 Penix could be cleared at any point over the next few weeks, and whenever that is, you can bet he will be ready for his moment. This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. gives update on ACL recovery