The veteran quarterback, who joined the Falcons on a one-year, $1.3 million deal during the offseason, acknowledged that his current responsibilities involve providing whatever guidance or assistance Penix requires. Whether it involves analyzing film, facilitating extra practice throws, or answering tactical questions, Tagovailoa emphasized that his primary objective is to ensure the starting quarterback is fully prepared for game day.
Injury Setback and Recovery
Tagovailoa’s path to the backup position was influenced by an oblique injury sustained early in the season. Initially named the starter out of training camp while Penix recovered from ACL surgery, Tagovailoa first felt discomfort on September 9. He attempted to push through the pain, initially mistaking the sensation for a back issue, but was ruled out the following day after the injury worsened during practice on September 10.
During his absence, third-string quarterback Cooper Rush took the helm for two games, both of which resulted in losses. While Tagovailoa has since returned to the active roster and was removed from the injury report last week, he admitted that he is not yet back to 100 percent health. Despite the physical limitations, he remains active as the primary backup.
A New Chapter in Atlanta
The transition marks a significant change for Tagovailoa, who was released by the Miami Dolphins earlier this year following a season where he led the league with 15 interceptions. The Dolphins incurred a record $99.2 million in dead cap space to facilitate his departure. Upon arriving in Atlanta, Tagovailoa was brought in to compete directly with Penix for the starting job.
Reflecting on the current team dynamic, Tagovailoa maintained a professional outlook regarding the competition for the starting spot. He noted that while he will always view his role through a competitive lens, he recognizes that Penix is currently the designated starter. Should Tagovailoa see the field as a starter later this season, it would mark only the third time since 1991 that a single NFL team has started two left-handed quarterbacks in the same campaign.
