The Atlanta Falcons have made their quarterback decision for Week 2, with Cooper Rush set to make his second consecutive start against the Carolina Panthers.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed the decision following Friday's practice as Atlanta continues to manage a complicated quarterback situation.
Cooper Rush gets another start
Rush started Atlanta's season opener after Tua Tagovailoa suffered an oblique injury while preparing for the matchup against Pittsburgh.
In his first start with the Falcons, Rush completed 12 of 22 passes for 143 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions.
He will now get another opportunity to lead Atlanta's offense while the team continues working through its quarterback situation.
Tua Tagovailoa remains questionable
Tagovailoa remains questionable for Sunday's game after missing practice throughout the week while recovering from his oblique injury.
Because he has not been able to practice this week, Rush will take the first-team snaps when Atlanta faces Carolina.
Michael Penix Jr. remains out
Michael Penix Jr. has also been ruled out as he continues recovering from the ACL surgery that ended his 2025 season.
Undrafted rookie Jack Strand will serve as Rush's backup against Carolina.
Atlanta will host the Panthers on Sunday, September 20, in its first home game of the season while looking for its first victory after opening the year with a loss to Pittsburgh.