Story perspectives

Tagovailoa struggles as Falcons trail Broncos 27–7

8/15/2026

Summary

Tua Struggles

Tua Tagovailoa started the Falcons' opener against the Denver Broncos on August 15, 2026, completing three of five passes, fumbling a snap, and leaving the team trailing 27–7.
Coach Kevin Stefanski said the snaps were intentional and that the starter will be chosen later.
Tagovailoa, who signed a one-year, $1.3 million deal after the Dolphins paid him $50 million, said the loss was ‘not up to standard’ and that he must improve.

Summary

Falcons Draft

The Falcons drafted Oklahoma linebacker Kendal Daniels and LSU defensive end Harold Perkins on Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft.
General manager Ian Cunningham entered the draft without a first-round pick and targeted middle-round talent.
Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich will use Perkins at inside linebacker and edge rusher to replace Jalon Walker and Kaden Elliss.
With Divine Deablo injured, Daniels now handles the “green dot” defensive communication duties.

History

Historical Context

During the April 15-16 2000 NFL draft, the New England Patriots chose quarterback Tom Brady with the 199th overall pick; after Drew Bledsoe’s 2001 injury, Brady led the team to its first Super Bowl on February 3 2002 and ultimately seven titles. The Atlanta Falcons—who have never held a Mr. Irrelevant pick—hope similar mid-round talent can reshape their 2026 roster.

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Tua Struggles

Tua Tagovailoa started the Falcons' opener against the Denver Broncos on August 15, 2026, completing three of five passes, fumbling a snap, and leaving the team trailing 27–7.
Coach Kevin Stefanski said the snaps were intentional and that the starter will be chosen later.
Tagovailoa, who signed a one-year, $1.3 million deal after the Dolphins paid him $50 million, said the loss was ‘not up to standard’ and that he must improve.

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