ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — The Atlanta Falcons will be down to their third-string quarterback for the 2026 NFL regular season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has officially been ruled out of Sunday’s Week 1 matchup due to an oblique injury. Tagovailoa, who was officially named Atlanta’s starter on Monday, was limited in practice Thursday before being sidelined on the team’s final injury report.

With backup quarterback Michael Penix Jr. already ruled out with an injury, veteran backup Cooper Rush will start under center for the Falcons when they travel to face the Steelers on the road.

Falcons first-year coach Kevin Stefanski said Friday undrafted rookie Jack Strand will be the backup.

Stay with Atlanta News First for the latest Atlanta Falcons injury updates, depth chart moves, and Week 1 game coverage.

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