Pittsburgh, PA, September 12, 2026 — The Atlanta Falcons announced that starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa will not play in the team’s Week 1 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The decision comes as Tagovailoa is dealing with an oblique injury. The specific severity and timeline for his recovery were not immediately provided.

With Tagovailoa sidelined, the Falcons will turn to Cooper Rush to take the starting snaps under center. Rush, who has previous starting experience, will lead the offense in the season opener. The team also confirmed that Jack Strand will serve as the backup quarterback for the game.

The absence of a starting quarterback, particularly for the opening game of the season, can present a significant challenge for any team. Week 1 is a critical period where teams aim to establish momentum and execute their game plans effectively. The Falcons will now need to adjust their offensive strategy and rely on Rush and the supporting cast to compete against the Steelers.

An oblique injury typically affects the abdominal muscles and can impact a player’s ability to throw, rotate, and withstand contact. The exact nature of Tagovailoa’s injury means his immediate return to play is uncertain. Further updates on his condition are anticipated as the season progresses.

The game against the Pittsburgh Steelers marks the beginning of the regular season for both franchises. The Falcons will look to overcome this quarterback change as they begin their 2024 campaign.

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Story summarized from the original created by Chris Ward on www.wpxi.com, see more information here.

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