Tua Tagovailoa isn’t approaching the end of 2025 without some challenges—and that’s a problem.
However, he doesn’t feel like his career is on a downward trajectory. Actually, he believes quite the opposite.
After being cut by the Dolphins and subsequently signing with the Falcons, Tagovailoa shared his expectations for his time in Atlanta during a recent press conference.
He’s hoping that joining the Falcons—who also recently acquired Trevor Siemian—might give him a fresh start in his football career.
“Last year wasn’t my best,” Tagovailoa remarked. “I’m looking for a fresh start. I believe the best is still ahead of me,” he said.
Just a couple of years ago, he was on the brink of making the Pro Bowl, but 2025 wasn’t shaping up to be promising.
He accumulated 2,660 passing yards, threw 20 touchdowns, but also had 15 interceptions. His QBR of 37.5 marked the lowest of his career, and his average of 190.0 yards per game was one of the worst since his rookie year.
Miami managed a record of 6-8 during his starts, and ultimately, he lost his position to rookie Quinn Ewers.
Currently, Tagovailoa finds himself in a competitive quarterback situation with Michael Penix Jr. and Siemian.
He’s aware that earning the starting role will require a significant improvement in his performance, especially with Kevin Stefanski as the new offensive-minded head coach.
“We need to play better football—that’s essential,” he emphasized. “There’s really no other way around it.”
Tagovailoa expressed his eagerness to tackle the competition, noting that he’s looking forward to collaborating with Penix, regardless of who ultimately secures the starting role.
Penix had previously thrown for 1,982 yards, with nine touchdowns and three interceptions while achieving the lowest interception rate in the NFL before needing season-ending ACL surgery.
“I embrace the competition,” Tagovailoa said. “I’m excited to work with Mike and all the players. It looks like it’s going to be a fun year ahead.”
