The Falcons won't name a starting QB for 2026, with Michael Penix Jr. out for months and no clear replacement.

Atlanta Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski declined to name a starting quarterback for the 2026 season, emphasizing he avoids early role assignments. Michael Penix Jr., the 2024 eighth-overall pick recovering from a torn ACL, is expected to miss at least nine months and likely won’t be ready for the opener. The team released veteran Kirk Cousins, who had a 5-3 record in his starts before being benched. While Penix remains the projected long-term solution, team president Matt Ryan said quarterback decisions are part of broader roster evaluations. The Falcons, rebuilding after a 5-12 season, have no first-round pick in 2026 and are unlikely to pursue high-priced veterans, focusing instead on Penix’s recovery and development.