Atlanta Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa appeared to suffer a lower back issue during individual throwing drills, going briefly to the ground and sitting on the grass during the open media portion of a Thursday practice, according to reports from The Athletic and ESPN. The development comes just days before the team’s regular-season opening game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Falcons Quarterback Briefs Grass in Thursday Scare
Video footage captured by local television reporter Reggie Chatman Jr. showed the quarterback going down during the workout before standing off to the side for the remainder of the media-viewing window. Tagovailoa did not participate in further drills during that portion of practice, according to field reports.
Familiar Medical History Tests Atlanta’s Timing
The timing presents a significant challenge for the Falcons’ preparations. Tagovailoa previously missed the first week of training camp due to lower back spasms, and he has also managed past hip injuries during his professional career. While he jogged away from the sudden drop under his own power, the visual created concern among observers as the Week 1 kickoff approaches.
Cooper Rush Steps in as Depth Chart Strains
With backup quarterback Cooper Rush taking first-team repetitions during Thursday’s session, the depth chart faces immediate pressure. Rush spoke to reporters following practice and confirmed he handled the primary workload for the day. Michael Penix remains in recovery from a knee injury, leaving the quarterback room thin as the team prepares to travel to Pittsburgh.
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Veteran Backup Brings Experience from Dallas and Baltimore
Rush brings veteran experience from previous stints with the Dallas Cowboys and Baltimore Ravens, where he served behind Dak Prescott and Lamar Jackson respectively. The Falcons also carry undrafted rookie Jack Strand on the roster.
