The Atlanta Falcons are finding themselves in a challenging situation regarding their quarterback lineup. Tua Tagovailoa, brought on board after being released by the Miami Dolphins, has struggled to meet expectations. This has prompted considerations about activating Michael Penix Jr. sooner than initially planned.
Tagovailoa was expected to excel under the new head coach Kevin Stefanski’s system. The original plan was to start the season with the experienced left-hander, allowing Penix to recover fully from his ACL injury. However, according to Ian Rapoport of ESPN/NFL Network, Penix’s return to form may accelerate, given Tagovailoa’s lackluster performance during training camp and the first preseason game.
It really seemed that the goal of the entire organization was to have Tua be the starting quarterback right away to start the season,” Rapoport said. “Let Michael Penix come along slow. …Really you’d like him to be inactive for the first several games and really just take his time and make sure he’s fully healthy.
During the preseason match against the Denver Broncos, Tagovailoa completed 3 of 5 passes for 22 yards. This performance did not secure his position, and Jack Strand and Cooper Rush were given opportunities subsequently. Given this development, Rapoport suggests that the position is now Penix’s to lose.
The Falcons had hoped Tagovailoa could capitalize on this fresh opportunity. Yet, signs indicate that Penix, now back practicing and sharing first-team reps, might be the chosen starter for the opening game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Head Coach Stefanski emphasized the team’s competitive culture, stating, “Everything we do around this building is competing. I know it’s easy to say, ‘position battles,’ and those types of things, but we’re constantly competing. That’s not the focus for our guys. Our guys are pushing each other by showing up and putting in the work.”
Tagovailoa still has a chance to reclaim his standing during the final preseason game against his former team, the Miami Dolphins. However, as the September 13th kickoff approaches, the coaching staff faces a crucial decision on who will lead the team.
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