Left-handed quarterbacks are quite uncommon in the NFL, but the Atlanta Falcons are set to sign Tua Tagovailoa under a one-year, $1.3 million deal, as confirmed by CBS Sports’ lead NFL insider Jonathan Jones. Tagovailoa will compete against fellow lefty Michael Penix Jr., here at least under the guidance of new coach Kevin Stefanski.
Tagovailoa’s Quick Transition
Tagovailoa swiftly found a new team after being expected to be released by the Miami Dolphins following his substantial four-year, $212.4 million deal signed in 2024, costing Miami a staggering $99 million in dead cap over the next two seasons while leaving him with a guaranteed $54 million for 2026. A similar scenario occurred with Russell Wilson in 2024 when the Denver Broncos parted ways with him, leading to his signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers on a minimum deal, allowing him to collect $39 million from Denver simultaneously.
Key Developments:
- For extensive 2026 NFL free agency news:
Although Tagovailoa experienced a late-career revival under Mike McDaniel—leading the league in various categories including passing yards, completion percentage, and others—his journey has been marred by injuries, failing to build on his successes. The Falcons now seem keen on reviving his career through this potential low-risk, high-reward approach, competing against a recovering Penix who is also looking to prove himself after undergoing a season-ending ACL injury.
As the front office, including Stefanski, GM Ian Cunningham, and Matt Ryan enthusiastically embrace this signing, it indicates a committed QB battle is forthcoming. Ultimately, they may need to discover a true leader if they wish to transcend their mediocre recent records.
