Atlanta’s October 19 quarterback move paired two transactions: the Falcons signed veteran Andy Dalton and released Cooper Rush. The team’s announcement says Dalton will compete for a backup role behind Michael Penix Jr.

Penix returned to the starting lineup in Week 3, and Rush moved to emergency third quarterback on game days after starting Atlanta’s first two games. The Falcons say Dalton will compete with Tua Tagovailoa for the backup role behind Penix.

Dalton began the 2026 season with Philadelphia and entered his 16th NFL season, according to the team.