There's not typically a ton of drama surrounding the NFL preseason, but that won't be the case when the Dolphins and Falcons clash this weekend.
That's because former Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who served as starting quarterback during multiple seasons for the franchise, will serve as the starter for the Falcons as the two teams meet on the gridiron to close the season. The news comes as Michael Penix Jr. is set to sit out the third and final game of the preseason for Atlanta.
It's Tua vs. Dolphins
— Joe Schad (@schadjoe) August 26, 2026
WOW
What is your first reaction to this news, folks https://t.co/5vf0aHO5C7
It will be Tagovailoa's first chance to face off against his former team since he was released by the Dolphins at the end of the 2025 season following the firing of head coach Mike McDaniel. Tagovailoa started 76 games for the Dolphins over the past six seasons, going 44-32 in the role. Before signing with the Falcons, Miami was the only team Tagovailoa had played for in the NFL.
But don't expect to see Tagovailoa start for Atlanta during the regular season either. It appears the reason for Tagovailoa earning the start is to ensure Penix is fresh and healthy once Week 1 arrives. And Tagovailoa has not done much to impress so far in Atlanta. During the preseason, Tagovailoa has played in just one of Atlanta's two games, going 3-for-5 for 22 yards. So his revenge game will also serve as his last opportunity to make a play for the full-time starting job.
This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Tua Tagovailoa earns start against former team in preseason finale