Falcons Aim to Make Tua Tagovailoa the Starter

Analyst sees clear path for former Dolphins QB to take over as Atlanta's QB1

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:07am

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New Atlanta Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has made it clear he isn't coming to the NFC South to be a backup, but to be the starter. With Michael Penix Jr. not showing much last season before an injury ended his year, there is a real thought that Tagovailoa will overtake him for the starting role in Atlanta.

Why it matters

Tagovailoa's career in Miami was filled with ups and downs and health problems, but when he was on, he showed flashes of being an elite quarterback. The Falcons are hoping he can regain that form and solidify their QB position after years of uncertainty.

The details

Tagovailoa signed with the Falcons in free agency this offseason, looking to revive his career after an inconsistent tenure with the Dolphins. The Falcons see him as their QB1 of the future, with Penix Jr. as the incumbent starter but not entrenched in the role.

  • Tagovailoa signed with the Falcons this offseason.

The players

Tua Tagovailoa

The new starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, looking to revive his career after an up-and-down tenure with the Miami Dolphins.

Michael Penix Jr.

The incumbent starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, but not firmly entrenched in the role after an injury-plagued 2025 season.

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The takeaway

The Falcons are hoping Tagovailoa can regain his form and solidify their quarterback position, which has been a revolving door in recent years. If he can stay healthy and consistent, he could be the long-term answer they've been searching for.