The Atlanta Falcons have emerged as a strong contender to land former Miami Dolphins Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, the Falcons are making a ‘strong early push’ to sign the $212 Million Quarterback.
“Lefties unite? The #Falcons are making a strong early push to sign former #Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa, sources tell The Insiders.” Garafolo said on X. With Michael Penix recovering from a torn ACL, Atlanta is making a move for an economic contingency plan and competition at the position.”
Tagovailoa Could Serve As Backup Plan to Michael Penix Jr.
Injuries have been an issue for Michael Penix Jr. in the past. Penix underwent surgery on a partially torn ACL in his left knee the week of Nov. 24, 2025. Nonetheless, this is not the first time Michael Penix Jr. has been seriously injured.
The Atlanta Falcons QB previously tore his right ACL in 2018 and 2020, both times ending his seasons at the University of Indiana. Penix would then transfer to the University of Washington.
Penix suffered his latest ACL injury on the left knee after taking a sack in the third quarter of a Week 11 game against the Carolina Panthers on Nov. 16. Before Michael Penix Jr. went down, he completed 60.1 percent of his passes while throwing for 1,982 yards during the 2025 season. He had nine total touchdowns and 3 interceptions.
Penix entered the 2025 campaign as Atlanta’s starter, beating out Kirk Cousins, and went on to start nine games.
Michael Penix Jr. is expected to return by Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season. With the expected release of Kirk Cousins, Tua Tagovailoa could land with the Atlanta Falcons to compete for the starting quarterback position.
Tua Tagovailoa Was Released by the Dolphins on March 6
After having an unsuccessful season with the Miami Dolphins in 2025, the Miami Dolphins parted ways with Tua Tagovailoa. Tagovailoa finished the 2025 season with 2,660 yards, 20 touchdowns and 15 interceptions.
“There’s no guarantee the Falcons would be signing the former Alabama standout to start in 2026, but it’s tough to imagine Tagovailoa signing without being told he has a good chance to start.” Matt Urben wrote in a Falcons Wire article.
Though Michael Penix Jr. has an injury history, Tagovailoa has not been the healthiest player during his career either. He has faced multiple injuries over the course of his career since being drafted in 2020. Tagovailoa has suffered numerous head injuries including three concussions in 2022.
The former first round pick suffered another concussion in 2024. All of Tagovailoa’s injuries dating back to college include head, knee, shoulder, ankle, quad, hip, thumb, ribs, and back.
Tua Tagovailoa could serve as a solid replacement to Michael Penix Jr. if injuries continue to plague his career. Free agency officially begins on March 11 at 4 p.m. ET.
“Tagovailoa’s career in the NFL has been a whirlwind to say the least, as, besides showing flashes of immense talent with the Dolphins, it seems that people will remember the myriads of concussions and injuries he sustained. Plus, with some limitations in certain areas, the Falcons are hoping they can unlock more out of the 28-year-old…” Zachary Weinberger wrote in a ClutchPoints article.
Report: Falcons Making ‘Strong Push’ to Land $212 Million Quarterback