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The Atlanta Falcons are facing more injury concerns at quarterback ahead of the team’s Week 1 showdown with the Pittsburgh Steelers to open their 2026 NFL campaign. During Thursday’s practice session, starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa appeared to suffer an oblique injury. After showing some obvious discomfort and grabbing his side/back area, Tagovailoa briefly sat on the turf, before he returned to his feet. According to those in attendance at Falcons practice, Tagovailoa did not throw for the rest of the day during the media viewing portion. As a result, it was Cooper Rush who took all of the first-team quarterback reps during Thursday’s session, opening the door for him to start the season-opener in Pittsburgh. MORE: NFL Week 1 picks & predictions: Broncos spoil Patrick Mahomes’ return Video Shows Moment Of Tua Tagovailoa Injury #WATCH: I happened to catch the moment #Falcons QB Tua Tagovailoa went down briefly during the open portion of #Falcons practice — Reggie Chatman Jr. (@ReggieChatman) September 10, 2026 He stood off to the side for the rest of the period we were able to watch. https://t.co/VyzfRrzond pic.twitter.com/sIO2CtmOkF Early on in training camp, Tagovailoa was dealing with minor back issues, but he still was able to suit up for two of the Falcons’ three preseason games. He was named the team’s starter, while Michael Penix Jr. continues to work back from a torn ACL. But, the latest setback raises obvious concerns for the Falcons, who already face a tough test on the road to start the season. We’ll have to wait for further updates from the team, but it is notable that Cooper Rush took all of the first-team reps during the viewing session. Other than Tagovailoa and Rush, undrafted rookie Jack Strand is only quarterback available. Strand was undrafted out of Division II Minnesota State Moorhead, so starting against the Steelers’ defense in an NFL debut would be a massive ask. We will learn more about Tagovailoa’s injury in the coming days, while Falcons fans hold their collective breath. Kickoff between the Falcons and Steelers at Acrisure Stadium on Sunday afternoon is set for 1:00 p.m. ET. — Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —