While there is optimism surrounding the Atlanta Falcons QB competition, the latest NFL rumors here suggest that the team may release veteran Tua Tagovailoa before the 2026 campaign. Despite quarterbacks coach Alex Van Pelt expressing he’d like a starter “weeks prior,” this is Tagovailoa’s job to lose, and if he doesn’t live up to expectations, the team could be forced to release him. Selected as a first-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, the former Alabama product signed a one-year deal to compete for the starting role alongside Michael Penix Jr., who struggled last season. With new head coach Kevin Stefanski, it could go one way or the other.
Although the former Miami starter was released this offseason and the team took on $67M in dead money, it hasn’t stopped former teammate from commenting on the situation. Dolphins offensive tackle Patrick Paul has faith that Tagovailoa will win the starting job. Appearing on “The Set” podcast with Terron Armstead, he’s predicting a comeback story:
“Him going into Atlanta now, he’s got a new situation, a new environment, and I know he’s going to go in there,” Paul said. “He’s definitely going to win that spot.”
NFL Rumors: Falcons May Cut Former $67M Disaster Before Week 1
Could Faith Run Out?
Absolutely, the former Dolphins Pro Bowler hasn’t been the same since the 2024 campaign, and that was when he signed his latest blockbuster contract. While the QB has been known for throwing for more than 300 passing yards apiece per matchup, the 2025 campaign revealed he wasn’t the answer anymore. After losing star WR Tyreek Hill, the QB was unable to be the same he once was after suffering a concussion in Week 2 of the 2024 NFL regular season.
The Dolphins decided it was time to rebuild. Miami hired new head coach Jeff Hafley while signing top free agent Malik Willis to a long-term deal. Now, the former passing yards leader is hoping to get back to his old self.
Do or Die in Training Camp
While he’s expected to start come Week 1, with Penix still recovering from an injury, it could change within the same season. He impressed during minicamp, but this month will reveal if he’s ready for the next step. Once Penix is healthy and Tagovailoa isn’t putting this offense in the driver’s seat to win, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him released. However, the hope is that the former Miami starter is ready, or else the Falcons will probably need to look at other options before Week 1.
Potential Fits
Carolina Panthers
With the Carolina Panthers not fully committed to QB Bryce Young, the team is waiting patiently and will look at other options if needed. The team signed Kenny Pickett to a one-year deal this offseason while they traded veteran Andy Dalton to Philadelphia. It feels like Pickett could have a chance to start, but after upgrading the pass offense, it’s on Young if he loses his starting spot. This means that Young has the momentum and right weapons to succeed.
If he isn’t ready, why not give Tagovailoa a chance as a backup if he doesn’t perform at the highest level with Miami?
Arizona Cardinals
Meanwhile, with Jacoby Brissett likely being traded before Week 1 due to contract issues, the Arizona Cardinals have one of the worst QB rooms. Despite taking Carson Beck this NFL Draft, the team is between him and journeyman Gardner Minshew. With it being Mike LaFleur’s first year, he could have no other choice but to give Tagovailoa a chance to start.
Los Angeles Rams
Even though Matthew Stafford is returning for what could be his final NFL season, the Los Angeles Rams are soon entering a rebuild phase. While they’re not there after acquiring Myles Garrett via a trade, the Rams took Ty Simpson in the first round this offseason. Simpson and Stetson Bennett will compete for the backup role, but once Stafford retires, the team could roll the dice on Tagovailoa to lead this offense temporarily. Head Coach Sean McVay has the brains to fully develop the former first-round bust in better shape.
