Cooper Rush started at quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday after Tua Tagovailoa suffered an oblique injury. Despite Rush’s struggles in a 20-13 loss, coach Kevin Stefanski opted to keep him as the starter instead of rookie Jack Strand.
Rush went 12-of-22 for 143 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions, including a pick-six to TJ Watt. He was sacked four times and did not have a rushing attempt. Bijan Robinson was a bright spot for the Falcons, gaining 83 yards on 21 carries and scoring a 23-yard touchdown pass from Rush.
"Kevin Stefanski said he did not consider putting Jack Strand in the game. (He) added he has been pleased with the rookie's development," reported FOX 5 Sports' Tori McElhaney. Strand was undrafted in April out of Minnesota State, Moorhead. Stefanski chose Tagovailoa as the starting quarterback before Week 1, but the injury forced a change.
Rush signed a one-year, $1.3 million contract with the Falcons in July after Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. both faced health issues. Last season, Rush appeared in four games for the Baltimore Ravens, throwing for 303 yards with zero touchdowns and four interceptions. The Falcons will play the Carolina Panthers in Week 2.
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