Falcons add quarterback Cooper Rush as quarterback depth concerns mount
Atlanta signed veteran QB Cooper Rush after learning that starter Tua Tagovailoa has a minor back issue and backup Michael Penix Jr. remains unavailable, leaving the team with three quarterbacks on the roster.
The Atlanta Falcons signed veteran quarterback Cooper Rush on the day of their first training-camp practice, adding to a quarterback group that has been thinned by injuries. Coach Kevin Stefanski announced that starter Tua Tagovailoa is dealing with minor back tightness and could miss up to a week, while backup Michael Penix Jr. has not yet received medical clearance. The team also released Trevor Siemian earlier in the week.
Rush was reportedly in the Falcons’ facilities finalizing his contract when the injury update was shared with the media. He participated in offensive drills during the practice and is scheduled to speak with reporters afterward.
Stefanski indicated confidence in the medical staff’s handling of Penix’s rehabilitation and said the coach does not have long-term concerns about the quarterback’s health. With Tagovailoa’s expected short absence and Penix’s uncertain return timeline, the Falcons are likely to keep three quarterbacks on the active roster, giving Rush an opportunity to compete for playing time.