{
  "id": 5796325,
  "title": "Tua Tagovailoa could be on short leash if named starter",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/05/tua-tagovailoa-could-be-on-short-leash-if-named-starter",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-05T16:08:39.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/tua-tagovailoa-could-short-leash-160839127.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Atlanta Falcons are reportedly considering limiting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to a backup role if he is chosen to start against the Pittsburgh Steelers on September 13. This comes as Michael Penix Jr., who suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his knee, is expected to take over the starting position once he fully recovers. Tua Tagovailoa's status as a potential starter has been called into question following the injury to Michael Penix Jr., who has been sidelined since November. Although a decision on the Week 1 starting quarterback may be made soon, Tua Tagovailoa and Penix Jr. are likely viewed as mere backup options in fantasy football leagues.",
  "summary": "Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. still vying for starting job",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}