Falcons coach lauds Tua Tagovailoa's accuracy as he battles for starting QB job

Atlanta Falcons Tua Tagovailoa Kevin Stefanski quarterback competition Michael Penix Jr.

Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa signed a one‑year, $1.2 million contract with the Atlanta Falcons after being released by the Miami Dolphins. He joins a quarterback competition with rookie Michael Penix Jr., who is returning from season‑ending knee surgery.

Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski praised Tagovailoa’s “innate, God‑given ability” to throw accurately, calling precision the most important trait for the position. Tagovailoa led the NFL with a 72.9 % completion rate in 2024, though his rate fell to 67.7 % in 2025 after a career‑high 15 interceptions, prompting his release. Stefanski also noted that Penix has rejoined full‑team drills and is impressing in his recovery.

The comments came during the Falcons’ organized team activities, signaling the coaching staff’s evaluation of both quarterbacks as the season approaches.

Sources

"Not saying you're not going to miss throws": Falcons HC Kevin Stefanski makes stance clear on Tua Tagovailoa after 10 days into OTAs [www.sportskeeda.com]

2 months ago

‘It’s God-Given’: Falcons Coach Delivers Eye-Opening Take on Tua Tagovailoa [www.si.com]

2 months ago

The No. 1 reason Tua Tagovailoa could be the Falcons’ starting QB is already on display [www.nytimes.com]

2 months ago

Tua Tagovailoa's 'God-Given' Accuracy Praised by Falcons' Stefanski amid QB1 Battle with Penix [bleacherreport.com]

2 months ago

Kevin Stefanski raves about Tua Tagovailoa’s ‘God-given ability’ during OTAs [www.newsweek.com]

2 months ago