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Atlanta, Georgia – The Atlanta Falcons made a major move at quarterback by agreeing to a one-year deal with former Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, giving the team an experienced signal-caller heading into the 2026 NFL season.
The signing comes shortly after Tagovailoa was informed that he would be released by Miami, ending a six-year run with the franchise that drafted him fifth overall in the 2020 NFL Draft.
A Fresh Start for Tua
Tagovailoa’s departure from Miami marks a surprising shift for a quarterback who once helped lead the Dolphins to an 11–6 record and a Pro Bowl appearance in 2023. However, injuries and inconsistent play in recent seasons led the organization to move in a different direction.
During the 2025 season, Tagovailoa threw for 2,660 yards with 20 touchdowns and 15 interceptions while posting a 6–8 record as a starter. Despite the move, the Dolphins will still absorb a significant financial hit from his contract. Reports indicate the release will result in roughly $99 million in dead cap charges spread over two seasons, one of the largest such hits in league history.
Why Atlanta Made the Move
For the Falcons, the signing represents a low-risk, high-reward opportunity. Because Miami remains responsible for most of Tagovailoa’s guaranteed money, Atlanta is able to bring in the veteran quarterback on a relatively inexpensive one-year deal.
The move also comes during a period of transition at quarterback for the Falcons. The team recently moved on from veteran Kirk Cousins and is managing the development and recovery of young quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who is working his way back from a torn ACL suffered late in the 2025 season.
Interestingly, the signing creates a unique situation in Atlanta’s quarterback room, as both Tagovailoa and Penix are left-handed quarterbacks competing for the starting role heading into training camp.
