James Palmer explains why Michael Penix Jr. took an extended period to return for Falcons
· Yahoo Sports
Michael Penix Jr. made his long-awaited return to the field this week when the Atlanta Falcons faced off with the Green Bay Packers.
Penix tore his ACL back in November 2025, missing the end of last season as well as the opening two games of 2026/27.
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His absence from those ties came despite suggestions that he had already been cleared.
However, NFL insider James Palmer has now explained why Penix took an extended period to be ready, citing it being a ‘unique recovery’ from his third ACL injury.
Michael Penix Jr. had ‘unique recovery’ from third ACL injury
During coverage of the Falcons’ meeting with the Packers on Thursday, Palmer appeared on NFL on Prime Video and was quizzed on Penix.
The interviewer said: “Michael Penix Jr. makes his return from that ACL tonight. He’s actually been cleared for a couple of weeks, James. So why are they just now putting him in?”
He responded: “Yeah, because it’s such a unique recovery. It’s his third ACL, so it’s a different graft, different procedure, different kind of comfort level he had to work through.
“So, started stacking days I’m told, Chris, the last week. And then Saturday, had an outstanding workout, but there were no residuals or pain on Sunday.
“That’s when they made the decision for him to start on Thursday. But also Penix wanted to start this game, I’m told, because of the extended recovery he gets into his second game.
“This now starts, I’m told, a true evaluation from the new brass in Atlanta of Michael Penix.”
While the Falcons had to wait an extended period to get one of their star players back, he did not disappoint on his return.
Penix completed 18 of 25 passes for 256 yards, managed one touchdown and one interception as his team secured a 35-14 win.
As Palmer mentioned, the Falcons now have over a week until their next game, taking on the New Orleans Saints on October 5.
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