Falcons weigh quarterback options as preseason concludes
Atlanta head coach Arthur Smith said the team is reviewing all quarterback possibilities, with Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix competing for the Week 1 starter role.
Atlanta coach Arthur Smith told reporters the Falcons are evaluating "all" of their quarterback options ahead of the regular season opener. The team has not announced a definitive starter, leaving the position open between veteran Tua Tagovailoa and third-year Michael Penix, who is returning from an ACL injury.
Tagovailoa has faced criticism for his recent preseason performance, including a short-pass sequence and a fumble that was recovered by the opposing defense. NFL Network analyst Ian Rapoport described his play as "horrid" during camp and preseason, suggesting the competition remains intense.
Penix resumed 11-on-11 drills this week, completing four of eight passes under simulated pressure, though two attempts were noted as short. He remains limited in contact work as he continues his recovery, and head coach Arthur Smith said he will monitor Penix’s progress before making a decision.
"I can’t speculate on those types of things," Smith said. "I want to really stay in the moment with Mike and see how he does in practice."
The Falcons are expected to announce their Week 1 quarterback shortly before their opening game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Until Penix is fully cleared for contact drills, Tagovailoa is considered the likely starter.