Falcons to Hold Out Michael Penix Jr. from Preseason Finale; Za’Darius Smith Reveals Personal Motivations
The Atlanta Falcons have announced that quarterback Michael Penix Jr. will not participate in the team's preseason finale against the Miami Dolphins, even though he has been medically cleared to play. The team stated they are adopting a day-to-day strategy…
Atlanta, GA, August 26, 2026 —
The Atlanta Falcons have decided not to play quarterback Michael Penix Jr. in their upcoming preseason finale against the Miami Dolphins. This decision comes despite the player having received medical clearance to participate.
The team has indicated that the process of selecting a starting quarterback is ongoing, with a day-to-day approach being taken. Specific details regarding the timeline for naming the starter were not provided.
In parallel developments, veteran linebacker Za’Darius Smith, who recently emerged from retirement to rejoin the NFL, has shared the profound personal circumstances that led to his brief hiatus from the sport. Smith revealed that the losses of his mother, grandmother, and father were significant contributing factors to his decision to step away.
Smith further expressed his motivation for returning to the league, specifically stating his desire to play for the Atlanta Falcons. He shared that this particular team was one his mother had always hoped he would play for.
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Story summarized from the original created by Kinsey Lee on www.atlantanewsfirst.com, see more information here.
