Tua Tagovailoa Joins Atlanta Falcons, Cites Matt Ryan's Influence

The former Dolphins QB signed a one-year deal with the Falcons, hoping to revive his career under the guidance of team president Matt Ryan.

Mar. 25, 2026 at 2:51am

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After six seasons with the Miami Dolphins, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was released this offseason. He has now signed a one-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons, citing the influence of team president and former NFL quarterback Matt Ryan as a key factor in his decision. Tagovailoa, who has struggled with injuries and inconsistency during his career, is looking to reinvent himself in Atlanta and compete with current starter Michael Penix Jr. for the starting job.

Why it matters

Tagovailoa's move to the Falcons represents an opportunity for the talented but injury-prone QB to revive his career under the tutelage of an all-time great in Matt Ryan. If Tagovailoa can stay healthy and regain his early-career form, he could solidify the Falcons' quarterback position for the foreseeable future.

The details

Tagovailoa explained that his open line of communication with Ryan, who is now the Falcons' president, was a "big influence" on his decision to sign with the team. The quarterback also stressed that he still has the "drive" to compete at the highest level, despite his recent struggles. In 2025, Tagovailoa played in 14 games for the Dolphins, throwing for 2,660 yards with 20 touchdowns and 15 interceptions.

  • Tua Tagovailoa was released by the Miami Dolphins this offseason.
  • Tagovailoa signed a one-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons in March 2026.

The players

Tua Tagovailoa

A quarterback who spent the first six seasons of his NFL career with the Miami Dolphins before being released and signing with the Atlanta Falcons in 2026.

Matt Ryan

A former NFL quarterback who is now the president of the Atlanta Falcons. Tagovailoa cited Ryan's influence as a key factor in his decision to sign with the team.

Michael Penix Jr.

The current starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, who struggled in 2025 and will now face competition from Tua Tagovailoa for the starting job.

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What they’re saying

“We've talked outside of that with football, if I had any questions his room is always open for me to go up there.”

— Tua Tagovailoa, Quarterback

“The drive is there. It's a blessing for me to be in this position, this opportunity I have to play for the Falcons.”

— Tua Tagovailoa, Quarterback

What’s next

The Falcons will hold an open competition between Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. for the starting quarterback job during training camp and the preseason.

The takeaway

Tua Tagovailoa's move to the Atlanta Falcons represents a fresh start for the talented but injury-prone quarterback. Under the guidance of team president Matt Ryan, Tagovailoa will have the opportunity to revive his career and prove he can be a consistent, reliable starter in the NFL.