The Atlanta Falcons have ended their preseason quarterback uncertainty—at least for Week 1.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski has named Tua Tagovailoa the starting quarterback for Atlanta’s season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers. It will be Tagovailoa’s first regular-season start outside Miami after spending his first six NFL seasons with the Dolphins.
Tagovailoa handled most of Atlanta’s full-team work during training camp while Michael Penix Jr. continued recovering from the partially torn ACL that ended his 2025 season. Penix participated more heavily in seven-on-seven periods before gradually returning to full-team action late in camp.
The veteran completed 10 of 13 preseason passes for 117 yards, finishing without a touchdown or interception and posting a 103.7 passer rating. His experience and familiarity with a timing-based passing attack ultimately gave Atlanta its safest opening-week option.
Tagovailoa will have a strong supporting cast featuring Bijan Robinson, Drake London and Kyle Pitts, along with offseason additions Jahan Dotson, Olamide Zaccheaus and Brian Robinson Jr. That collection should allow Atlanta to emphasize quick decisions, accuracy and yards after the catch—areas that have traditionally suited Tagovailoa’s game.
This feels more like a Week 1 decision than a permanent declaration. Tagovailoa now gets the first opportunity, but his performance—and Penix’s continued recovery—could eventually reopen the conversation.
For now, the assignment is clear.
Tua Tagovailoa will lead the Falcons into Pittsburgh on Sunday, Sept. 13 at 1 p.m. ET.
Want to write, edit, host, or produce with FPC? Join the staff →
Join the conversation
Bring your take to the huddle. Comments are reserved for Full Press Coverage members.
Strong takes rise. Keep it respectful.