Falcons give Michael Penix Jr. full reps in non-contact practice

Atlanta held a non-contact practice on Monday, giving quarterback Michael Penix Jr. a full slate of repetitions after being medically cleared over the weekend. The session featured no pads or contact, and both Penix and starter Tua Tagovailoa threw several off-target passes, including deep attempts to receivers Drake London and Jalin Hyatt. Penix was pressured on one play and used his legs to extend the play, showing confidence despite the lack of contact.

Backups Cooper Rush and Jack Strand saw limited activity, a decision head coach Kevin Stefanski explained was intended to give the starters more work after the backups logged significant snaps in Saturday’s preseason game against the Colts. Stefanski emphasized the importance of getting Penix fully integrated with the offense, saying, "I think bigger picture for me at least right this minute is getting [Penix] in the huddle with all 11."

The coach also highlighted the development focus for younger players, noting that Strand would continue working with second- and third-string reps. Special-teams work included praise for Natrone Brooks for his gunner angle and a kick return during drills.

The Falcons will conclude the preseason with a game against the Miami Dolphins later this week. Stefanski indicated that workload plans for the starters, including Penix, will be discussed in upcoming media sessions.