NFL2 hours ago2 minute read

Tagovailoa Embraces Backup Role Behind Penix in Atlanta

Tua Tagovailoa is embracing his backup quarterback role with the Atlanta Falcons as Michael Penix Jr. solidifies his spot as the starter.

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Supporting the Starter

Tua Tagovailoa is ready to help the Atlanta Falcons from the sidelines. After Michael Penix Jr. led the team to a 35-14 win over the Green Bay Packers last Thursday, Penix has secured the starting quarterback job.

Tagovailoa is fully embracing his new role as the backup. He says he wants to do everything possible to support Penix. Tagovailoa said that you have to do everything you can to make sure you are not the reason the starter is failing. He added that his job is to help Penix with film, extra throws, and questions.

Injury Setback and Recovery

Tagovailoa began the season as the starter while Penix recovered from left ACL surgery in November. However, Tagovailoa hurt his oblique during Week 1. He grabbed his side during practice on September 10 and had to sit on the grass in clear discomfort.

With Tagovailoa sidelined, third string quarterback Cooper Rush started the next two games, which both ended in losses. Tagovailoa said he initially thought his back had locked up, but it turned out to be an oblique injury. He is feeling much better now, even if he is not completely at 100 percent. He was taken off the injury report last week and served as the backup.

A New Start in Atlanta

The Miami Dolphins released Tagovailoa during the offseason after he threw a league high 15 interceptions in 2025. Miami took on a record 99.2 million dollar charge to part ways with him. The Falcons then signed him to a one year, 1.3 million dollar contract to compete with Penix.

If Tagovailoa does start a game this year, it will mark only the third time since 1991 that an NFL team has started two left handed quarterbacks in the same season. While Tagovailoa still views the situation as a competition, he knows his current role. He stated that Penix is the guy, and the team must support him.

What it means for the next game

Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints (NFL, Tue, 06 Oct): New Orleans Saints win 54%, Atlanta Falcons win 46%; projected score New Orleans Saints 25, Atlanta Falcons 23. Our safest pick: Falcons +10.