Atlanta Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is set to start Friday's preseason opener against the Denver Broncos, head coach Kevin Stefanski announced Wednesday. However, Stefanski cautioned that this decision is specific to the preseason game and does not guarantee Tagovailoa the starting role for Week 1 of the regular season.
"We're just now entering Week 1 of the preseason with this game on Friday night. Obviously, Tua is going to play in that game, and I think that's great to get game action with our guys," Stefanski told NFL Network.
The majority of the Falcons' starters will play in the preseason opener but are expected to participate for only a series or approximately 10 plays, according to Stefanski. Following Tagovailoa's start, Cooper Rush will rotate in, and Jack Strand will finish the game.
Michael Penix Jr. is continuing his rehabilitation from an ACL tear and has not yet been cleared for full 11-on-11 practice. He is anticipated to join the Falcons' quarterback competition once he has recovered.
"Specifically to the quarterback position for Penix and Tua, this was learning a new system for our guys," Stefanski said. "So laying the foundation of the new system, understanding that when you get to training camp, now it's about really building through your installs, finding out what your players do best."
Stefanski emphasized that determining a regular-season starter will require more live game repetitions. He pointed to upcoming joint practices with the Indianapolis Colts as another opportunity for both quarterbacks to demonstrate their capabilities and separate themselves.
"From a preparation standpoint, these guys are on top of it, learning the new system, understanding what's important on each given play," Stefanski stated. "So I'm very pleased with where we are. I just know in the calendar where we are. We're not there yet in terms of naming somebody a starter."
The Falcons are scheduled to begin their regular season on September 13 on the road against the Pittsburgh Steelers.