Falcons Acquire Tua Tagovailoa from Dolphins in Mock Trade

Atlanta looks to add new QB under Kevin Stefanski, while Miami moves on from Tua

Feb. 19, 2026 at 1:47am

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In a hypothetical trade scenario, the Atlanta Falcons would acquire quarterback Tua Tagovailoa from the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins, under new head coach Jeff Hafley, are reportedly looking to move on from Tagovailoa, while the Falcons aim to add a new QB to work with head coach Kevin Stefanski. The proposed deal would send Tagovailoa to Atlanta in exchange for a 2026 3rd-round pick, a 2027 1st-round pick, and a 2027 3rd-round pick.

Why it matters

This potential trade would mark a new chapter for both franchises at the quarterback position. The Dolphins are expected to transition away from Tagovailoa, while the Falcons see an opportunity to acquire a young, talented passer to build around under Stefanski's guidance. The trade could have significant fantasy football implications as well, as it would reshape the outlooks for the offenses in Miami and Atlanta.

The details

According to reports, the Dolphins' new regime led by head coach Jeff Hafley is open to trading Tagovailoa, with a release also being a possibility. The Falcons, meanwhile, are seen as the frontrunners to land Tagovailoa, with a 29% chance of being his next team. Atlanta is in need of a quarterback with Kirk Cousins likely departing and Michael Penix Jr. unproven. Stefanski's history of improving quarterback play makes Tagovailoa an intriguing target for the Falcons.

  • The Dolphins are expected to make a decision on Tagovailoa's future in the coming weeks.
  • The Falcons are viewed as the leading candidate to acquire Tagovailoa, according to oddsmaker Kalshi.

The players

Tua Tagovailoa

The 24-year-old quarterback has spent the first four seasons of his NFL career with the Miami Dolphins.

Jeff Hafley

The new head coach of the Miami Dolphins, taking over for Mike McDaniel.

Kevin Stefanski

The head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, known for his ability to develop quarterbacks.

Michael Penix Jr.

The Falcons' current quarterback, who has yet to prove himself as a reliable starter in the NFL.

Kirk Cousins

The veteran quarterback who is expected to leave the Falcons in free agency.

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What they’re saying

“The #Dolphins preference has been to find a trade partner for Tua Tagovailoa. A cut is possible in the end. But that has been their preference.”

— Jordan Schultz, NFL Insider

What’s next

The Dolphins will need to decide on Tagovailoa's future in the coming weeks, whether that's through a trade or a release. The Falcons will continue to monitor the situation and assess whether Tagovailoa is the right fit to be their next starting quarterback.

The takeaway

This potential trade would mark a significant shift for both the Dolphins and Falcons at the quarterback position. For Miami, it would signal a new era under Hafley and a move away from Tagovailoa. For Atlanta, it would provide an opportunity to acquire a young, talented passer and potentially revive his career under Stefanski's guidance.