Tua Tagovailoa Will Start Falcons Preseason Opener, But Week 1 QB Still Unclear

The Atlanta Falcons have their QB1, for now.  

Tua Tagovailoa will start at quarterback Friday for the Falcons in their preseason opener against the Denver Broncos on Friday, head coach Kevin Stefanski announced Wednesday. However, Stefanski made clear that the decision applies strictly to the preseason opener and does not establish Tagovailoa as the starter for Week 1. 

“We’re just now entering Week 1 of the preseason with this game on Friday night. Obviously, Tua is going to play in that game, and I think that’s great to get game action with our guys,” Stefanski told NFL Network.

The rest of the Falcons’ starters will play on Friday, but will only play a series or about 10 plays, Stefanski added in comments to reporters. Tagovailoa will start, then Cooper Rush will rotate in afterwards and then allow Jack Strand to finish the game. 

As for Michael Penix Jr., he’s not yet cleared for full 11-on-11 work as he continues to rehab from an ACL tear. But he’s expected to play a role in the Falcons’ quarterback competition once he’s healthy. 

Michael Penix is still rehabbing from an ACL tear and won’t be available to play for the Falcons in their preseason opener. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)

“Specifically to the quarterback position for Penix and Tua, this was learning a new system for our guys,” Stefanski said. “So laying the foundation of the new system, understanding that when you get to training camp, now it’s about really building through your installs, finding out what your players do best.”

Stefanski emphasized that naming a regular season starter will require more live game reps and pointed to upcoming joint practices with the Indianapolis Colts as another opportunity for both quarterbacks to separate themselves.

“From a preparation standpoint, these guys are on top of it, learning the new system, understanding what’s important on each given play,” Stefanski said. “So I’m very pleased with where we are. I just know in the calendar where we are. We’re not there yet in terms of naming somebody a starter.”

The Falcons open their regular season schedule Sept. 13 on the road against the Pittsburgh Steelers.