The most surprising thing at Falcons training camp isn’t an injury update or a roster move. It is a joke from Michael Penix Jr. about how he plans to survive if the pocket collapses. The backup quarterback told reporters that every signal-caller in the building shares a specific secret strategy for bad plays. Penix said all the QBs joke that “if you get into trouble, just ‘Bij’ it,” per The Falcoholic.
This line hits hard because it highlights just how much the team relies on Bijan Robinson. The running back is the safety net for the entire offense. When the quarterback is in a bind, the solution is often to dump the ball off to the star runner. It shows a clear hierarchy where one player is the ultimate escape route. The energy around this dynamic is high, and the players seem to love the idea.
Tua Takes the Reins While Penix Heals
While Penix shares a laugh about his backup plan, Tua Tagovailoa is busy taking the bulk of the work. The starting quarterback appeared to be more or less “full go” during the second padded practice on Wednesday. He took all the starter reps in the 11-on-11 drills. This is a big shift from earlier days when he was limited. Despite an early interception suggesting a route miscommunication, Tagovailoa responded with several impressive throws.
Michael Penix Jr. is still working his way back from his injury. He spoke to the media after practice on Wednesday and said that he feels good. Penix stated he “could be cleared any day,” according to The Falcoholic. A meeting with his doctor remains the final step, yet it is not currently scheduled. Still, the quarterback says he is feeling better and definitely improving week-over-week. The team is not going to push him and take risks with his long-term health.
Drake London is the main target for these young quarterbacks. Matt Ryan even ran some receiving drills with London and Jahan Dotson during the session. London said after practice that “He always wants to throw,” referring to the former Falcons legend. The energy was high today even though practice wasn’t full contact. Guys were playing fast and physical. While the game’s speed differs greatly, younger players appear to be adjusting.
Special Teams and Defensive Battles
The special teams unit showed some serious grit during the full-contact drills. Nick Folk, the veteran kicker, worked extensively today, converting all seven field goal attempts from distances between 31 and 51 yards. The 51-yard kick, which began with a botched hold, stood out as the most impressive. Jake Bailey, the holder, recovered swiftly, allowing Folk to successfully nail the attempt. On Monday, Folk discussed his past relationship with Bailey and the significance of having prior experience with a specific holder.
On the other side of the ball, the defense is fighting hard for every yard. Avieon Terrell and Cash Jones had a bit of a battle for the ball during practice. Jones talked with reporters after practice, saying: “That’s our livelihood right there … the football. Any time you have a football, you don’t ever want to turn it over.” He noted that Terrell is always working to get him better. The DBs in particular were fun to watch on Friday. AJ Terrell prevented what would have been a gorgeous sideline catch by London by getting him out of bounds.
Injuries remain a concern for the coaching staff. Safety Jessie Bates III was not on the field today. It appears he’s dealing with some kind of injury, but official news has not arrived. DL Zach Harrison had his helmet on but was still working on the rehab field. He seems to be inching closer to returning. CB CJ Henderson has been held out of the last two days of practices. The team will be in full pads for tomorrow’s Saturday Night Lights event at Lanier High School.
Kevin Stefanski did address Jalon Walker’s injury at the start of his availability. The head coach said he was “disappointed,” but that Walker will be back. I wouldn’t expect that to be this season, unfortunately, but hopefully he’ll be 100% for 2027. The focus now shifts to the preseason game next week. Assuming no setbacks with his lower back, Tagovailoa is expected to start. The team is rotating different players in and out, but Tua is taking more snaps with the probable first team.
