Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. expects his rib injury to be a short-term issue after it forced him out of the closing moments of Sunday night’s 30-23 overtime loss to the Baltimore Ravens.
Penix set for Monday imaging
Head coach Kevin Stefanski said Penix will have imaging performed Monday after taking a late hit in regulation. The quarterback said afterward that he was not concerned about a prolonged absence.
“I know what I’m dealing with right now, and I don’t think it will be a long-term issue,” Penix said. “It kept me out at the end today, but I’ll be fine.”
- Penix suffered the injury with 19 seconds left in regulation.
- Ravens defender Tavius Robinson recorded the sack that knocked Penix from the game.
- Penix lost a fumble on the play before heading to the Atlanta sideline.
- He was treated by team personnel on the bench and did not go into the medical tent.
Late quarterback change sends game to overtime
Tua Tagovailoa entered after Penix left the field, but Penix returned after one snap and threw an incompletion. Atlanta later punted, allowing the contest to reach overtime.
Penix remained sidelined for the extra period. Stefanski said the quarterback was attempting to get comfortable enough to re-enter, but could not reach the point where he was able to continue.
Tagovailoa took over in overtime and completed 2 of 3 passes for 34 yards. His final throw was intercepted, ending the Falcons’ comeback chance and securing Baltimore’s victory.
Penix productive in third game back from ACL tear
Before leaving the game, Penix completed 19 of 32 passes for 240 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions. It was his third appearance this season since returning from the torn ACL he sustained last year.
Atlanta will await Monday’s test results to determine whether Penix faces any limitations heading into the club’s next game.
