Atlanta Falcons name Cooper Rush starter after Tua Tagovailoa injury

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has been ruled out for the team’s Week 1 season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers due to an oblique injury. Tagovailoa sustained the injury during Thursday’s practice, where he was seen in visible discomfort after throwing a pass.

With Tagovailoa sidelined and Michael Penix Jr. remaining inactive as he continues his recovery from a torn ACL, veteran Cooper Rush has been named the starting quarterback for Sunday’s game. Rush, who signed with the Falcons in late July, will lead the offense, while undrafted rookie Jack Strand is expected to serve as the backup.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski indicated that the team is taking a week-by-week approach to the quarterback position. While Tagovailoa was recently named the starter, his ability to return for upcoming games remains uncertain following the injury.