Atlanta Falcons target Tua Tagovailoa as quarterback solution in NFL offseason

Atlanta Falcons plans to move forward with signing quarterback Tua Tagovailoa in free agency, after Miami Dolphins confirmed the player’s release on Monday. Fontes indicate that Atlanta’s team sees the former Dolphins as an immediate option for the position, especially with Michael Penix Jr. recovering from knee injury and Kirk Cousins set to be released before the start of the new league year. The move comes amid a reshuffling of the Falcons squad, who seek to stabilize the attack after an 8-9 winning season.

The release of Tagovailoa represents one of the biggest financial impacts in recent NFL history. Os Dolphins will absorb US$99.2 million in dead money in the salary cap, with the post-June 1 formalization allowing the amount to be split between 2026 and 2027.

Falcons evaluate options at quarterback

The Falcons face uncertainty in their position following the injury to Penix Jr., which occurred in Semana 11 last season. The quarterback selected in eighth position in the Draft of 2024 suffered a rupture in the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee and still has no set date for a complete return, although he believes he is ready for Semana 1.

Kirk However, the team chose to release him, making room for new additions.

Leadership overhaul in Atlanta

Atlanta Falcons promoted significant changes in the technical committee and management. Kevin Stefanski, former coach of Browns, assumed main command, while Ian Cunningham held the position of general manager.

Matt Ryan, franchise idol, was hired as president of football operations to oversee strategic decisions. Essas changes aim to build a consistent competitive base.

Financial impact of the layoff on Miami

The Dolphins see $67.4 million of negative salary cap impact in 2026, followed by $31.8 million in 2027 with the post-June 1 designation. The value surpasses the previous record of US$85 million absorbed by Broncos when dispensing with Russell Wilson in 2024.

Tagovailoa is guaranteed $54 million in 2026, minus any new team salaries. The measure reflects the broad reformulation of the cast, with recent dismissals of names such as Tyreek Hill, Bradley Chubb, James Daniels and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine.

Trajectory from Tagovailoa to Dolphins

Drafted fifth overall by Draft in 2020 from Alabama, Tua Tagovailoa took over as starter in 2021.

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In 2022, under Mike McDaniel, threw for 3,548 yards and 25 touchdowns, but missed games due to concussions. In 2023, he led the NFL in passing yards with 4,624 and 29 touchdown passes, playing every game.

Recent performance and challenges

Tagovailoa led the league in pass completion percentage in 2024, but missed six games with injuries. In 2025, he faced inconsistencies, with 15 interceptions – a personal record – and was placed on the bench in the last three games.

Quinn Ewers, a 2025 seventh-round pick, emerges as the most experienced quarterback remaining on the Dolphins roster. The team plans to select another QB in the draft and possibly sign a veteran in free agency, without major immediate expenses.

Quarterback’s farewell message

Tagovailoa published a note on social media thanking Dolphins and his fans. Ele highlighted the joy of representing the city and expressed gratitude for the contributions on the field and in the community.

The south of Flórida remains with a special place in his heart, as he prepares for a new chapter with faith and positive memories.

Recast context in Miami

The waiver integrates changes under Jon-Eric Sullivan and Jeff Hafley. The team finished 2025 at 7-10, out of the playoffs for the second year in a row. Negociações as well as from Minkah Fitzpatrick to the Jets are part of the process.

The future of Tagovailoa was up for debate after benching and statements that everything remained open, including exchange. Sem commercial agreement, the release took place.