Michael Penix Jr.’s struggles may help Tua Tagovailoa stick around in Atlanta

Michael Penix Jr.'s brutal Week 8 start is giving the Atlanta Falcons a reason to keep Tua Tagovailoa.

By Jason Kandel · Blogging Dirty

Published: Thursday, 5 November 2026 at 11:00 AM

Key Things to Know

Writer Jason Kandel argues Michael Penix Jr.'s recent struggles mean the Falcons should keep Tua Tagovailoa.
Tagovailoa has served as the primary backup to Penix since signing with Atlanta this past offseason.
Penix is coming off a four-interception performance in a loss against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Blogging Dirty argues that Michael Penix Jr.'s recent inconsistencies should convince the Atlanta Falcons to keep backup quarterback Tua Tagovailoa past the trade deadline. Despite trade rumors surrounding Tagovailoa, Penix recently threw four interceptions in a loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, showing Atlanta still needs reliable depth at the position.

Writer Jason Kandel notes that trading Tagovailoa would leave 38-year-old Andy Dalton as the sole backup. Given Tagovailoa's low salary and limited trade market value, the writer contends that general manager Ian Cunningham should keep him as valuable insurance.

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Michael Penix Jr.’s struggles may help Tua Tagovailoa stick around in Atlanta

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