The Atlanta Falcons have announced Tua Tagovailoa as their starting quarterback for Week 1. This decision comes as Michael Penix Jr. recovers from a partially torn ACL, an injury he sustained against the Carolina Panthers in Week 11 of the 2025 season. The team is cautious with Penix, opting not to rush him back.
The Falcons’ quarterback position has seen multiple changes over the years. Since Matt Ryan’s final season in 2021, the team has started a new quarterback almost every year. Previous attempts included Marcus Mariota in 2022, Desmond Ridder in 2023, Kirk Cousins in 2024, and Michael Penix Jr. in 2025.
In the 2026 offseason, the Falcons made notable changes. They parted ways with head coach Raheem Morris and brought in Kevin Stefanski from the Cleveland Browns. Tagovailoa joined the team after being released by the Miami Dolphins.
Stefanski stated, ‘You have a chip on your shoulder. I think where I’m coming into this, where Tua’s coming into this is, listen, this is not exactly how you thought it would go, but guess what, that’s the reality, and how are we gonna respond? I think that’s what he’s made of.’
Tagovailoa has faced challenges staying on the field, only playing a full season once in 2023. That year he became a Pro Bowler and led the Dolphins to an 11-6 record. In contrast, his last season saw 2,660 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions over 14 games.
The NFC South remains unpredictable, with the Panthers winning the division with an 8-9 record last year. The Falcons last claimed the division title in 2016.
Atlanta will start their season on the road against the Pittsburgh Steelers.