Full Breakdown
Falcons Await Quarterback Michael Penix Jr.’s Availability for Week 6 Clash with Chicago
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
The Atlanta Falcons’ starting quarterback, Michael Penix Jr., suffered a rib injury on a sack by Baltimore Ravens linebacker Tavius Robinson with 27 seconds left in regulation of the 23-23 overtime loss. Penix left the game and did not return for the overtime period. The Falcons must decide by mid-week whether he will start against the Chicago Bears in Week 6.
Background & Context
Penix missed the first two games of the 2024 season, returned in Week 3, and helped Atlanta secure consecutive victories over the Green Bay Packers and New Orleans Saints. The Falcons entered the Ravens game with a 2-3 record, hoping his presence would improve their offensive production against a 3-2 Bears team.
Data & Statistics
- Penix’s season totals through three starts: 719 passing yards, three touchdowns, one interception, completing 67.5 % of his attempts.
- In the Ravens game, he completed 19 of 32 passes for 240 yards and one touchdown before the injury.
- Backup quarterback Tua Tagovailoa entered the overtime drive, completing two of three passes for 34 yards before throwing an interception.
Official Statements & Responses
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the rib injury “is not considered serious” and that the Falcons will evaluate Penix’s practice performance before confirming his status. The team plans imaging, including an MRI, to assess the injury’s extent. Head coach Kevin Stefanski said the Falcons will have a clearer answer “by Wednesday,” indicating that a final decision will be made after further medical review.