Tua Tagovailoa Addresses Lackluster Falcons Debut: 'Not Up to Par'

Tua Tagovailoa, the newest quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, had a disappointing preseason debut in a 27-7 loss to the Denver Broncos. During his brief time on the field, Tagovailoa completed only three passes for 22 yards and did not throw any touchdowns. The Falcons also utilized two additional quarterbacks, Cooper Rush and Jack Strand, in the game.

While preseason games are generally viewed as inconsequential, some players and observers consider them a crucial test of NFL readiness. Tagovailoa was unimpressed with his own performance, stating that it did not reflect the training and hard work put in during the first two weeks of camp. He attributed his shortcomings to himself, acknowledging that he needed to improve.

During the game, Tagovailoa fumbled a snap on a second-down play, which complicated matters for the Falcons' next play. Tagovailoa had been with the Miami Dolphins prior to joining the Falcons, but was released in March after five years with the team. Following his release, the Falcons signed him to a one-year contract worth approximately $1.3 million, which was the veteran minimum.

The team also holds the eighth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Michael Penix Jr., as another potential quarterback option. However, Penix Jr. has been recovering from a torn ACL injury sustained last season and is still uncertain if he will be able to play in preseason games. As for the Falcons' quarterback competition, ESPN NFL insider Jeremy Fowler suggested that Tagovailoa had the inside track for the starting position, though the decision would likely not be made until after the preseason.

The Falcons will face the Indianapolis Colts in their next preseason game on Saturday, August 22, followed by a matchup against Tagovailoa's former team, the Miami Dolphins, on Friday, August 28.