Michael Penix Jr. is finally getting his chance to return to the Atlanta Falcons’ starting lineup.
The Falcons announced Monday that Penix will start Thursday night’s matchup against the Green Bay Packers, marking his first game action since suffering a torn ACL last November. The return comes after nearly 10 months of rehabilitation and preparation.
Penix suffered the ACL injury during Atlanta’s Week 11 matchup against the Carolina Panthers last season. The injury ended his 2025 campaign after nine starts and forced him to spend the offseason working his way back.
The Falcons were cautious with Penix to begin the 2026 season. Although he returned to practice and eventually received full medical clearance, the quarterback said he still wasn’t where he wanted to be physically during the first two weeks.
That finally changed after a rigorous workout Saturday.
Penix said his knee responded normally to the workout, giving him the confidence that he was ready to return. He told Falcons coaches after Sunday’s loss to Carolina that he felt ready to play.
Now, Penix gets his opportunity under the lights at Lambeau Field.
The timing is significant for Atlanta. The Falcons are 0-2 to start the season and have struggled offensively, failing to reach the red zone through their first two games. Cooper Rush started the first two games while Penix continued his recovery.
Penix now takes over with a chance to provide a spark.
The former first-round pick has already shown plenty of arm talent during his time in Atlanta, and the Falcons will be hoping his return can help get their season back on track.
After months of rehabilitation, uncertainty and patience, Penix is finally ready to play football again.
And his comeback begins Thursday night in Green Bay.
