Atlanta Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is experiencing back tightness that will keep him sidelined for at least the first week of training camp, according to ESPN. The injury, described by new coach Kevin Stefanski as a “flare up,” is not expected to be long-term.
The Falcons' quarterback competition has been further complicated by the status of rookie Michael Penix Jr., who is still not cleared for 11-on-11 drills as he recovers from ACL surgery. The team also released veteran quarterback Trevor Siemian after he re-aggravated a calf injury, adding Cooper Rush to bolster depth during camp.
Tagovailoa, who signed a one-year contract with Atlanta after being released by Miami, has a history of injury concerns. He battled concussions during his tenure with the Dolphins and also sustained a back injury in 2022. The Falcons signed him to a deal worth $1.2 million, offering him an opportunity to compete for the starting role.
Penix, drafted by the Falcons with the eighth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, also has a documented history of knee injuries, including two ACL tears during his college career. He underwent surgery last November for a partial tear in his left knee and his clearance for contact is still pending.
In addition to Tagovailoa and Penix, the Falcons have undrafted free agent Jack Strand on their roster as they navigate the early stages of training camp.