Tua Tagovailoa retirement rumors emerge amid Falcons injury concerns

Former NFL head coach Todd Haley has suggested that Atlanta Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa may have secretly retired from the league. Speaking on the ‘Go Long’ podcast, Haley expressed his opinion that Tagovailoa has mentally checked out, comparing the situation to Russell Wilson’s offseason transition to broadcasting.

Tagovailoa, who joined the Falcons after being released by the Miami Dolphins, was named the team’s Week 1 starter over Michael Penix Jr. However, he is currently sidelined with an oblique injury sustained during practice. This injury follows a period of declining performance and benching during the 2025 season.

Due to the injuries to both Tagovailoa and Penix Jr., undrafted rookie quarterback Jack Strand is expected to serve as the backup behind Cooper Rush for the Falcons' opening week. Strand recently shared lighthearted details regarding a rookie talent show held by the team prior to the season.