{
  "id": 8691554,
  "title": "Michael Penix could be the Falcons’ starting QB as soon as this Thursday night against the Packers",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/20/michael-penix-could-be-the-falcons-starting-qb-as-soon-as-this",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-20T13:08:31.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/michael-penix-could-falcons-starting-130831748.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Atlanta Falcons' quarterback situation has been a hot topic since the beginning of training camp. According to sources, Michael Penix Jr. appears to be the most likely candidate to start as early as this Thursday night against the Green Bay Packers. Adam Schefter and Ian Rapoport have reported that Penix is \"nearing a return\" and could take over the starting role for the upcoming game. Despite some skepticism about his readiness, the current quarterback room seems to have good chemistry, despite carrying four quarterbacks on the active roster. With the team's injury history and the need for backup players, retaining Tua Tagovailoa for now appears to be the best option for the Falcons. As for Jack Strand, the team seems to see potential in him, but it's unclear if they will be able to retain him on the practice squad. Overall, this quarterback saga has been an intriguing journey, and it seems the wait for Penix to take over as the starter could be over sooner than expected.",
  "summary": "Atlanta’s wild ride at the quarterback position may soon be over. Michael Penix Jr. could take over as the Falcons’ starting QB in Week 3 vs. the Packers.",
  "key_points": [
    "Michael Penix Jr. likely to start against Packers this Thursday",
    "Four quarterbacks on Falcons' active roster",
    "Tua Tagovailoa retained for now due to injury history"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}