Atlanta Falcons name Tua Tagovailoa starter for preseason opener

The Atlanta Falcons and Denver Broncos are set to face each other in their NFL preseason opener at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Atlanta Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski has named quarterback Tua Tagovailoa as the starter for the preseason opener. However, the coaching staff has not yet officially designated a regular-season starter, as the competition between Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. continues. Penix is currently sidelined while awaiting clearance following an ACL injury.

In Denver, quarterback Bo Nix will not play in the preseason opener, though he traveled with the team and participated in practice. The Broncos are expected to utilize backups Jarrett Stidham and Sam Ehlinger during the game. The matchup also features significant roster battles for both teams as they prepare for the upcoming regular season.