Tua Tagovailoa named Falcons’ QB1, but Adam Schefter declares Michael Penix Jr.’s ‘turn is coming’

With just a few days before the start of the new season, the Atlanta Falcons have selected Tua Tagovailoa as their starting quarterback over Michael Penix Jr.

Tagovailoa and Penix were neck and neck for the main role, as Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski welcomed the competition in training camp. Tagovailoa and Stefanski are in their first season in Atlanta.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on the Falcons’ decision to hand the keys to Tagovailoa. Schefter, however, added a potential caveat regarding Penix.

“Michael Penix tore his ACL last November and wasn’t cleared for 11-on-11 work until August 22. His turn likely is coming this season, but for now, the Falcons are going with Tua Tagovailoa,” wrote Schefter on X.

The Falcons signed the 28-year-old Tagovailoa to a one-year, $1.2 million contract in March, just days after he was released by the Miami Dolphins.

Last season, the veteran signal-caller logged 2,660 yards, 20 touchdowns, and a career-worst 15 interceptions in 14 games.

Stefanski likely went with the safer choice, as it is still unclear if the 26-year-old Penix is totally ready after coming off a major injury. He did not play in any of their preseason games. As for Tagovailoa, he has had concussion issues in recent years.

ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky previously expressed his skepticism about Tagovailoa getting the starting nod.

“While I love Tua, and I understand him probably not wanting to get hit because of those injuries and the concussions, they just won’t survive in Atlanta with a short passing game for long,” said Orlovsky.

After weeks of indecision, there is more clarity now for the Falcons, who are looking to end an eight-year playoff drought.

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