Cooper Rush joins Atlanta Falcons as injury cover

Cooper Rush has joined the Atlanta Falcons as injury cover. The move comes as the Falcons navigate a wave of injuries, with Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. both dealing with undisclosed issues. Coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed Rush will rotate into Friday’s preseason game against the Broncos. Rush, 32, brings eight seasons of NFL experience, including time with the Dallas Cowboys and Baltimore Ravens. He played college football at Central Michigan Chippewas before signing as an undrafted free agent in 2017. His addition addresses depth concerns during training camp, offering a proven backup option for a team reshaping its quarterback situation. Fantasy analysts have labeled him a likely loser in Week 6, reflecting limited upside in a crowded rotation. The signing underscores the Falcons’ reliance on veteran insurance as they prepare for the regular season.

Roster move follows injury wave

The Atlanta Falcons signed Cooper Rush during training camp as injuries mounted at quarterback. Coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed Rush will rotate into Friday’s preseason game against the Broncos.

Rush, 32, joined the Falcons after the team faced quarterback attrition. He previously played for the Central Michigan Chippewas and entered the NFL in 2017 as an undrafted free agent with the Dallas Cowboys. His most recent NFL stint was with the Baltimore Ravens in 2025.

The signing occurred amid injury concerns for Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. Rush’s role is temporary, aimed at providing depth during preseason evaluation. His fantasy designation was listed as a loser in Week 6, reflecting limited upside in traditional formats.

The move underscores the Falcons’ reliance on experienced backups to navigate a volatile quarterback landscape.

Career path and recent experience

Cooper Rush, a 32‑year‑old quarterback from the United States, entered the NFL in 2017 as an undrafted free agent with the Dallas Cowboys. After college at Central Michigan Chippewas, he has spent parts of eight NFL seasons with several franchises. His most recent stint was with the Baltimore Ravens during the 2025 season, when he served as a backup and emergency option. Rush’s career trajectory reflects a journeyman path, marked by short‑term contracts and practice‑squad elevations that kept him on active rosters despite limited starting opportunities. The Falcons signed him as training camp began and injuries mounted among their quarterbacks, positioning him as depth behind the starter. His experience includes multiple preseason appearances and occasional relief duties, making him a familiar insurance piece for teams needing veteran backup support.

Fantasy implications and roster context

Rush was flagged as a fantasy football loser in Week 6 of the 2025 preseason, reflecting limited upside despite his active roster status. His addition underscores the Falcons’ reliance on depth options amid a crowded quarterback situation. The team signed the 32‑year‑old former Cowboys and Ravens backup as training camp began and injuries were piling up, including a flare‑up of Tua Tagovailoa’s undisclosed injury and setbacks to Michael Penix Jr. Coach Kevin Stefanski said Rush will rotate into Friday’s preseason game versus the Broncos. The move comes as the Falcons seek stability at quarterback while their depth chart remains unsettled. Rush’s eight‑year NFL career includes stints with Dallas, Baltimore and practice squad appearances, but his recent fantasy production has been minimal.

Preseason role and future outlook

Cooper Rush will rotate into Friday's preseason game versus the Broncos, marking his first official appearance in the Falcons' camp. Coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed the move, noting that Rush’s presence comes as Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. deal with injuries. The Falcons signed Rush during training camp as injury numbers piled up, adding a veteran backup with eight NFL seasons, including recent time with the Baltimore Ravens in 2025. His role is purely situational — to provide depth and stability while the team evaluates its quarterback options. Rush’s experience as a proven reserve gives Atlanta a reliable emergency option, though his fantasy relevance remains limited given the crowded depth chart. His contract reflects a short-term deal focused on injury cover rather than long-term competition for the starting role.

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