Michael Penix Jr. is set to make his 2026 debut for the Atlanta Falcons against the Green Bay Packers on September 24, 2026, at Lambeau Field. Penix returns from a left ACL tear suffered last November, aiming to jump-start an offense averaging a league-low eight points through the first two games.
Thursday Night Football brings a pivotal Week 3 matchup to Lambeau Field as the Atlanta Falcons visit the Green Bay Packers on September 24, 2026. Both teams enter the prime-time contest looking to spark struggling offenses that currently sit in the bottom five of expected points added per play.
Michael Penix Jr. Returns to Atlanta’s Lineup Following ACL Injury
The Falcons will turn the offense over to Michael Penix Jr. for his 2026 debut. Penix has not played a game since tearing his left ACL last November. The return provides a welcome change for an Atlanta squad that averaged a league-low eight points and failed to reach the red zone while starting Cooper Rush through the first two contests. Rush and Jack Strand combined to turn the ball over five times in a 34-3 home loss to Carolina.
Penix received clearance for full participation in practice about a month ago. Selected eighth overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, Penix compiled a 4-8 record as a starter across his first two seasons, completing less than 60 percent of his passes and throwing for under 200 yards per game. Atlanta’s new leadership faces a decision this coming spring regarding the fifth-year option on his rookie deal.
Despite the quarterback change, fantasy analysts suggest exercising caution with the returning signal-caller.
Green Bay Tackles Injury Concerns Around Jordan Love and Pass Catchers
The Packers return home after starting the season with an opening loss to the Minnesota Vikings and an overtime escape against the New York Jets, where Green Bay overcame a 17-7 fourth-quarter deficit to win 20-17. Jordan Love threw for 145 yards and two touchdowns against the Jets, completing 16 of 29 passes without an interception. Love opened the season passing for 387 yards and two scores against the Vikings.
Green Bay’s receiving corps faces notable adjustments following Week 2 injuries. Wide receiver Jayden Reed left the game against the Jets with a neck and back injury. RotoBaller noted that Reed appears likely to miss time, concentrating the passing volume around Christian Watson, Matthew Golden, and tight end Tucker Kraft.
Watson has emerged as Love’s primary deep threat, catching 10 passes on 19 targets for 188 yards and three touchdowns through two games. Yahoo pointed out that Watson’s snap count increased from 76 percent to 90 percent in Week 2, making him a strong start with Reed sidelined. Meanwhile, Tucker Kraft played all offensive snaps against New York and remains a focal point in the middle of the field.
Unlocking Atlanta’s Skill Weapons Under the New Quarterback
Atlanta’s supporting cast features prominent skill-position talent that has yet to produce significant numbers. Falcons wide receivers and tight ends combined for just 17 catches, 173 receiving yards, and zero touchdowns through the first two weeks—the lowest totals among NFL units. Tight end Kyle Pitts caught only one pass for 15 yards on four targets, prompting offensive coordinator Tommy Rees to acknowledge he must do a better job showcasing the tight end.
Running back Bijan Robinson remains a central figure in the game plan despite the offensive struggles. Robinson ran for 83 yards and added eight receptions for 90 yards and a touchdown against Pittsburgh, followed by 72 rushing yards and three catches against Carolina.
Local Broadcast Coverage and Lambeau Field Matchup Details
Kickoff at Lambeau Field is set for 7:15 p.m. CT on September 24, 2026. FOX6 News Milwaukee announced it will simulcast the Prime Video Thursday Night Football broadcast for free in the Milwaukee market over the air and through cable, satellite, and FOX ONE providers, featuring special coverage before and after the game.
Green Bay’s injury report includes several other roster developments. Offensive tackle Zach Bako-Bewele suffered a complete tear of the patellar tendon in his right knee and faces a nine-month recovery. Guards Aaron Banks and Donovan Jennings also exited the Jets game with injuries, leaving the Packers managing depth issues as they host Atlanta for their home opener.
