Atlanta Falcons quarterbacks Michael Penix Jr. and Tua Tagovailoa have delivered what is being called a potential "Meme of the Year" contender early in the NFL preseason. The moment occurred Friday night during the Falcons' preseason opener against the Denver Broncos.
Penix, who is still recovering from an injury and did not play in the game, was observed on the sideline pointing at Tagovailoa, who had just completed his first possession in a Falcons uniform. Penix appeared to make a bewildered face, an expression that has quickly been likened to a popular reaction meme.
Tagovailoa, acquired by the Falcons in the offseason, completed three of his five passing attempts for 22 yards during his brief appearance. The remaining snaps were handled by quarterbacks Jack Strand and Cooper Rush. Strand completed 6 of 12 passes for 50 yards and a touchdown, while Rush struggled, going 7-for-19 with 62 yards and two interceptions. The Falcons lost the game 27-7.
The NFL is frequently a source of viral internet moments, and this particular interaction between Penix and Tagovailoa is expected to gain further traction online. The meme potential of the incident has already been widely noted, with social media users sharing the image and speculating on its future widespread use.