Atlanta Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski remains undecided on the starting quarterback for Sunday’s home opener against the Carolina Panthers, casting uncertainty over Cooper Rush’s role after one week under center. Rush started last Sunday’s 20-13 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, completing 12 of 22 passes for 143 yards and a touchdown but threw two interceptions, including a costly pick-six to T.J. Watt in the fourth quarter. Michael Penix Jr. may be nearing a return to the starting position, particularly following Tua Tagovailoa’s absence from Wednesday’s practice due to an oblique injury sustained last Thursday.
Meanwhile, the New York Jets face injury concerns with safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and rookie wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. both sidelined and listed as “week to week” by coach Aaron Glenn. Fitzpatrick suffered a groin injury during the Jets’ season-opening win against the Tennessee Titans, while Cooper exited with an ankle issue.
The Detroit Lions will be without two starting offensive linemen in their upcoming Thursday night game against the Buffalo Bills. Rookie offensive tackle Blake Miller is out with a knee injury, and guard Christian Mahogany is sidelined due to a hip ailment. Both players have been key contributors but will miss the matchup as Detroit seeks to maintain offensive stability.
On the legal front, Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Keenan Allen faces two misdemeanor charges related to an alleged drunken driving incident. Court records show Allen was charged Tuesday with operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.15 or higher and operating a vehicle while intoxicated. The six-time Pro Bowler posted $500 cash bond and waived an initial hearing set for Wednesday. An attorney conference is scheduled for Oct. 26. Allen is expected to participate in Wednesday’s practice despite the ongoing legal matter. According to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, Allen was arrested shortly after 1 a.m. on Aug. 30 following a traffic investigation that began when his vehicle was observed parked in a no-parking zone, with officers noting signs of intoxication upon contact.
In Seattle, the Seahawks announced Drew Lock will start at quarterback for Sunday’s game against the Arizona Cardinals due to Sam Darnold’s glute injury. Darnold sustained the injury in the first series of last week’s 13-10 win over the New England Patriots when he was sacked by Dre’Mont Jones. Lock replaced him and completed 16 of 22 passes for 187 yards and a touchdown, leading the Seahawks’ rally. Backup Jalen Milroe will be available as the team manages its quarterback depth.