Story perspectives

Falcons Start Minicamp, Trade for Morris, Penix Still Recovering

6/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Falcons began a minicamp on June 16, 2026, in Flowery Branch, Georgia, and traded for tackle Wanya Morris.
Coach Kevin Stefanski said quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is uncleared for 11-on-11 drills but progressing in rehab, while quarterback competition continues with Tua Tagovailoa.
Edge rusher James Pearce Jr. returned after his February arrest but will stay in work, while linemen Kendal Daniels and Anterio Thompson miss participation due to injuries.

History

Historical Context

The NFL’s modern free-agency system began on March 1 1993, replacing Plan B and giving teams new roster-building tools. Expansion drafts in 1999 (Browns) and 2002 (Texans) showed how clubs could shed or assume contracts to manage salary caps. Leveraging that legacy, the Atlanta Falcons hold a June 16 2026 minicamp, trade for tackle Wanya Morris, and balance quarterback Michael Penix Jr.’s rehab with Tua Tagovailoa’s competition.

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Story summary

The Falcons began a minicamp on June 16, 2026, in Flowery Branch, Georgia, and traded for tackle Wanya Morris.
Coach Kevin Stefanski said quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is uncleared for 11-on-11 drills but progressing in rehab, while quarterback competition continues with Tua Tagovailoa.
Edge rusher James Pearce Jr. returned after his February arrest but will stay in work, while linemen Kendal Daniels and Anterio Thompson miss participation due to injuries.

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