Tua Tagovailoa to Start for Falcons in Preseason Opener Against Broncos

Tua Tagovailoa is set to start for the Atlanta Falcons in their preseason opener against the Denver Broncos on Friday night at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Head coach Kevin Stefanski announced this decision, expressing enthusiasm for Tagovailoa's first game action with the team.

The Falcons plan to utilize their starters for a series of about 10 plays during the game. Cooper Rush will serve as the second quarterback, with undrafted free agent Jack Strand expected to complete the game. Meanwhile, Michael Penix Jr., the eighth pick in the 2024 draft, remains unable to participate in full 11-on-11 drills as he continues to recover from a torn ACL.

Tagovailoa, who joined the Falcons on a one-year deal after being released by the Miami Dolphins, has shown improvement in training camp despite earlier back tightness. His quarterbacks coach noted his growing comfort in the new system. Penix, while participating in seven-on-seven drills, has expressed the need to fully trust his knee before returning to full action, with Stefanski affirming confidence in his recovery progress.