Kevin Stefanski says Michael Penix Jr. will likely start for the Falcons against the Bears despite a rib injury.

Michael Penix Jr. left Sunday's game due to a rib injury, and Taa Tagovailoa replaced him in overtime, but he is expected to play against Chicago.

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The quarterback position in Atlanta has been one of the most talked about stories in the NFL. After an injury-riddled offseason and a two-week stint with Cooper Rush under center, Atlanta appeared to find some stability when Michael Penix Jr. returned to the starting lineup.

Penix suffered a rib injury late in Sunday's tough game against the Baltimore Ravens. He returned briefly before the end of the game but was unable to continue in overtime and Tua Tagovailoa had to take over.

Tagovailoa threw the final game, leaving Penix's status uncertain for a crucial Week 6 meeting with the Chicago Bears.

After Penix underwent an MRI earlier this week, Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski said Wednesday that the quarterback is on track to start Sunday's game, barring any setbacks.

Pennix returned to practice on Wednesday, although he was listed as a limited participant.

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Stefanski declined to elaborate on what he knew about the extent of Penix's rib injury, instead telling reporters that the left-handed pitcher is "feeling better."

On Monday, ESPN's Adam Schefter told "The Pat McAfee Show" that Penix's rib injury "didn't appear to be a long-term injury" at the time.

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (9) looks for an open receiver during the second half against the Carolina Panthers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Nov. 16, 2025.

"Penix's training load this week will depend on how he feels," Stefanski said.

"I want to see how he feels," Stefanski said. "With any injury like this, you want to make sure they're moving and how they're feeling -- it could be all, some, none. We'll see."

ESPN later reported on Wednesday that Penix "took all first-team reps in practice."

In response to a question about the condition of his ribs, Penix told reporters: I felt good in training today. "... I've just got to stay on top of my rehab and just make sure I'm doing everything right."

He added: I feel good about leaving this week, so this is the plan.

Penix's injury history dating back to his college days is well documented. He suffered his latest ACL injury last November and underwent surgery. His recovery kept him out of the Falcons' first two games this season.

The status of Bears star Caleb Williams is also unclear for Sunday's game in Atlanta. He has missed the last two games with a hamstring injury. However, Bears head coach Ben Johnson said Wednesday that Williams will be a full participant on the latest injury report.