Atlanta Falcons open 2026 training camp with quarterback battle

The Atlanta Falcons began their 2026 training camp on July 24 at the team facility in Flowery Branch, Georgia. New head coach Kevin Stefanski presides over a quarterback competition between newly signed Tua Tagovailoa, acquired after his release from the Miami Dolphins, and first‑round pick Michael Penix Jr., who is still recovering from a third ACL surgery and has not been cleared for full practice. Tagovailoa is expected to start unless Penix regains health, while Stefanski praised Penix’s work ethic.

The camp also features other roster updates: tight end Kyle Pitts Sr. returns on a three‑year, $54 million extension, rookie wide receiver Zachariah Branch draws comparisons to Tyreek Hill, and the offensive line sees the retirement of Kaleb McGary and the addition of Jawaan Taylor from Kansas City. Defensively, edge rusher James Pearce Jr. faces a domestic‑violence charge that could affect his status.

Across the league, other teams such as the Cleveland Browns are also holding quarterback auditions, highlighting a broader NFL trend of uncertainty at the position after high‑profile injuries and roster changes last season.