Michael Penix Jr. Injury, Falcons QB Updates Status and Return Timeline After Tua's Game-Ending INT

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. suffered a rib injury during the fourth quarter of Sunday's 30-23 overtime loss against the Baltimore Ravens after taking a big hit in the pocket.

Penix—who missed the Falcons' drive in overtime—told reporters after the game, via ESPN's Marc Raimondi, that he doesn't believe it will be a long-term injury.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski had previously provided more information on the injured quarterback after the contest.

Penix, 26, had a solid game, throwing for 240 yards and a touchdown. But on the final drive in regulation he took a big hit from Tavius Robinson and fumbled, though Atlanta managed to recover the loose ball.

The game then went into overtime and the Ravens scored a touchdown on their first possession. Penix remained on the bench and was replaced by Tua Tagovailoa, who threw a pick on the second play of the drive.

Injuries have been a massive story in Penix's career. The young quarterback only appeared in nine games last season after suffering a left ACL injury that required season-ending surgery. He missed the first two games of the NFL season but provided a spark upon his return, as Atlanta had won two games in a row heading into Sunday night.

Penix also tore his ACL twice in college, and shoulder injuries also cost him significant time at the college level. It's been a bumpy road from a health perspective.

Depending on the severity of this latest injury, Tagovailoa could be called back into action. He was released by the Miami Dolphins ahead of the 2026 campaign after a string of disappointing seasons, though he brings plenty of experience (76 career starts) to the position.