Michael Penix Jr. returns from a 10-month absence for his 2026 debut as Atlanta (0-2) visits Green Bay on Thursday night. Kyle Pitts, rookie Zachariah Branch, Za'Darius Smith and Avieon Terrell are also players to watch as the Falcons seek their first win.
Atlanta's offense has struggled through two games: Pitts has one catch, despite offensive coordinator Tommy Rees saying he wants to get the tight end more involved. Rookie receiver Branch had two screen targets last week and played only seven snaps on passing downs.
Za'Darius Smith returns to Lambeau Field for the first time in four years; he recorded 16.5 sacks in 21 career games there. The Packers will be without right tackle Zach Bako-Bewele, while Atlanta's top cornerback A.J. Terrell is out. His brother Avieon could see more outside-corner reps as the secondary adjusts.
