Tua Tagovailoa Named Starting QB for Falcons' Week 1 Matchup

Tua Tagovailoa has been appointed as the starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons' Week 1 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, as confirmed by the team on Monday.

This decision follows a competitive training camp where Tagovailoa outperformed Michael Penix Jr., who is inactive for the game. Penix had previously started nine games for the Falcons in 2025 before suffering a season-ending injury. Coach Kevin Stefanski indicated that Cooper Rush will serve as Tagovailoa's backup.

Tagovailoa, who joined the Falcons on a one-year deal after six seasons with the Miami Dolphins, had a strong preseason, including a notable performance against the Dolphins. He is set to make his first start for Atlanta at the same location where he last played for Miami.