Analyst reveals how Falcons avoided 54 million risk with Tua Tagovailo

  • July 28, 2026 10:55 PM PDT

    The were in need of a veteran quarterback to pair with Michael Penix Jr, and on the first day of free agency, it didn't take long for the franchise to acquire one. We had heard Richard Moore Jersey rumors and reports about who the Falcons could be interested in, and in the end, it was Tua Tagovailoa who came to the NFC South team. Much was made of Tua's time in Miami, and especially with his huge contract hanging over the franchise, the wanted out. And now, NFL.com's Nick Shook has detailed how this is a huge win-win for Atlanta. "The veteran quarterback heads to Georgia to occupy an interesting role in 2026, one that could begin with him filling the starting job at the start of the season as Michael Penix Jr. works his way back from a season-ending ACL injury," . "Atlanta also avoids risk in handing a minimum contract to Tagovailoa, who will make $54 million this season -- almost all of it from the Dolphins." More: Falcons get bargain in Tua The fact that the Dolphins are picking up most of his money in 2026 is great for Atlanta, but it's also good for the franchise that they will be paying Tua the minimum in 2026. So, while the league might be out on Tua, we have seen veteran quarterbacks get a new lease on life on another team, with Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold the latest examples. Could Tua follow suit? He will likely get all first-time snaps this offseason as Penix Jr. recovers from an ACL injury, and there is a real chance he starts for the first portion of the year as well. Plenty of time to establish himself in Atlanta. Miami wanted out, even if it meant paying most of the $54 million, and the Falcons have reaped the reward. A win-winthat is also a move with zero risk attached. More NFL news: Terrelle Pryor Sr. Jersey