Falcons QB depth chart: Does Michael Penix Jr.'s return mean end of Tua Tagovailoa?

The Atlanta Falcons are experiencing a challenging start to their season, but a potential turnaround might be on the horizon following the return of Michael Penix Jr. as the team's starting quarterback for Thursday Night Football against the Green Bay Packers. While Penix is not expected to single-handedly solve every problem for the Falcons, his return is certainly a positive sign after Cooper Rush's struggles at the position during the opening games.

Adding to the quarterback conundrum at the Falcons is Tua Tagovailoa, who initially took the team's Week 1 starter spot before suffering an oblique injury in practice just days before the team's season opener. Ever since Tagovailoa's injury, Rush has taken the reins in the first two games, but has since been replaced by undrafted rookie Jack Strand in the game against the Panthers.

The team's official starting quarterback remains uncertain as there has never been a time when all quarterbacks have been fully healthy to compete.

With Penix back from injury, the Falcons now have three viable candidates to vie for the starting position: Michael Penix Jr., Tua Tagovailoa, and Cooper Rush. Penix appears to have the best chance at solidifying his position as the starter, particularly if he continues to perform well in upcoming games. As for Tagovailoa, his status as the starter will largely depend on his recovery and performance.

Although it is unclear if both he and Penix would be healthy and available to start simultaneously, Penix's availability paves the way for him to establish himself as the franchise's primary quarterback if he showcases his skills effectively.