Falcons Get Clarity on Week 1 Opponents' Quarterback Situation

The Atlanta Falcons found out their full schedule on Thursday, along with the rest of the NFL, as they look to make a splash under first-year head coach Kevin Stefanski. The team announced that they will open the year on the road against the Pittsburgh Steelers. On Saturday, they announced the return of their starting quarterback.

It was reported that future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers will return to the Steelers for another year after reaching an agreement on a one-year deal. He will be reunited with Mike McCarthy, who took over as head coach in Pittsburgh this offseason after Mike Tomlin stepped away from the team. While in Green Bay, the McCarthy and Rodgers duo terrorized the NFC, which included a Super Bowl XLV in 2010. 

This leaves one of the team's quarterback situations likely answered, as Rodgers will certainly get the start to begin the year if healthy. However, for Atlanta, the question still looms as to who will take the first snaps of the 2026 season. Michael Penix Jr. has begun taking snaps, including some under center, certainly a change of pace from the past few seasons. The Falcons front office did sign quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to a one-year, veteran minimum deal after being released by the Miami Dolphins, for some security and depth at the position. Still, it seems like it's Penix's job to lose. 

The Falcons will be looking to start the season strong under Stefanski, as they hunt for their first playoff appearance since 2017. Getting a win against the Steelers would give Falcons fans an unfamiliar taste and raise the confidence and belief in the new regime, as Atlanta has historically struggled against the team from the Steel City. The Falcons are 16-2-1 all-time against Pittsburgh and have not won against them since the 2006 season. 

The week 1 game is scheduled for Sunday, September 13th, with kickoff set for 1 pm EDT.