The Atlanta Falcons have named Tua Tagovailoa their starting quarterback for the upcoming Week 1 NFL season opener. This decision makes the Falcons the last team to finalize their starting quarterback plans for the 2026 campaign.
Tagovailoa will lead the team against Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh Steelers. The quarterback competition was ongoing through training camp with Michael Penix Jr., who is still recovering from knee surgery performed last season. Offensive coordinator Tommy Rees noted Tagovailoa's veteran presence and ability to read defenses during training camp.
Penix Jr. was the Falcons' starter last season, holding the position until suffering a torn ACL in Week 11. Following his injury, Kirk Cousins took over, leading the team to a 4-3 record in the remaining games, contrasting with Penix Jr.'s 3-6 record prior to his injury.
With Cousins now with the Las Vegas Raiders, and serving as their starter ahead of top draft pick Fernando Mendoza, the Falcons signed Tagovailoa in March after his release from the Miami Dolphins. Tagovailoa, who generated $99.2 million in dead money for the Dolphins upon his release, signed a one-year contract worth $1.215 million with Atlanta. This signing provides Tagovailoa another opportunity as an NFL starter.