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Tua Tagovailoa reveals 'big influence' on decision to sign with Atlanta Falcons

Yahoo Sports

The Atlanta Falcons brought in Tua Tagovailoa this offseason and the quarterback recently explained why he chose the Falcons.

Tua Tagovailoa reveals 'big influence' on decision to sign with Atlanta Falcons originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here . Tua Tagovailoa will have a new team for the 2026 season for the first time in his NFL career.

After spending six seasons with the Miami Dolphins , Tagovailoa was released this offseason. Despite his recent struggles and health issues, Tagovailoa likely had plenty of options for his next team. However, the quarterback decided to head to Atlanta to join the Falcons and compete with Michael Penix Jr.

Penix struggled in 2025, so Tagovailoa could realistically land the starting job. On Tuesday, Tagovailoa spoke with Atlanta media about his decision to sign with the team. The quarterback gave props to former quarterback, and current Falcons president, Matt Ryan, for making his decision easier.

"We've talked outside of that with football, if I had any questions his room is always open for me to go up there," Tagovailoa explained . The opportunity to work for one of the best quarterbacks of his generation was obviously appealing. It seems like Tagovailoa has an open line of communication with Ryan as well, which is always helpful.