Atlanta Falcons name Tua Tagovailoa starting quarterback for upcoming NFL season

The Atlanta Falcons have named Tua Tagovailoa as their starting quarterback. The decision follows a preseason where the team evaluated its options while managing the recovery of Michael Penix Jr. from a torn ACL sustained last November. Although Michael Penix Jr. recently returned to practice, his status for full-time duty remains uncertain, leading the team to select Tagovailoa over other roster alternatives including Cooper Rush. Mike Florio suggested that the team should have considered undrafted rookie Jack Strand for the role, citing concerns over Tagovailoa's training camp performance. The organization previously drafted Michael Penix Jr. to secure the position, creating ambiguity regarding the long-term starter as the regular season begins. The Falcons continue to navigate the health of their quarterback room as they prepare for early season matchups.

• 6:36 AMYahoo Sports — Falcons suggested to play undrafted rookie over Tua Tagovailoa after Atlanta’s decision