Falcons’ Tagovailoa and Penix to Compete for Starting QB Role

The Atlanta Falcons will hold an open competition for the starting quarterback position between newly signed veteran Tua Tagovailoa and 2024 first-round pick Michael Penix Jr., according to Falcons General Manager Ian Cunningham.

Tagovailoa Arrives in Atlanta to ‘Compete’

Former Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa joined the Falcons on a one-year, minimum deal at the start of free agency. Cunningham emphasized that Tagovailoa was brought in specifically to challenge Penix for the starting job. “For Tua, coming in here, he knows he’s coming in to compete, just like Michael knows that he’s coming in to compete,” Cunningham told reporters on Friday NFL.com.

Penix’s Recovery and the Quarterback Situation

The competition comes as Penix continues to recover from an ACL injury sustained in November 2025. His recovery timeline could potentially lead to Tagovailoa taking the reins early in the 2026 season. Cunningham and head coach Kevin Stefanski have declined to name a frontrunner, preferring to allow the competition to unfold naturally. “We’re not in the business of really handing out starting positions in February, and in March, the same,” Cunningham stated CBS Sports.

A Low-Risk Move for Atlanta

The signing of Tagovailoa is considered a low-risk move for the Falcons, providing security at the quarterback position while Penix recovers. Tagovailoa, a 2023 Pro Bowler, is looking for a fresh start after being released by the Miami Dolphins. Fox Sports

No Immediate Decision on Starter

Despite the addition of Tagovailoa, the Falcons have not committed to either quarterback as the starter. Both players will have the opportunity to earn the role through competition during training camp and the preseason. AP News