Changing Times: Falcons starters to play in preseason opener

IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Changing Times: Falcons starters to play in preseason opener

Originally posted on SportsTalkATL | By Chase Irle | Last updated Aug 12, 2026 3:55 PM ET

One of the more frustrating aspects of the previous two Falcons coaching staffs was that they absolutely refused to play their starters in the preseason, specifically the quarterbacks.

That wouldn’t be an issue in a lot of places. But for a team that’s cycled through quarterbacks the way Atlanta has, many of them inexperienced, it never made a whole lot of sense — and the team usually suffered through the early part of the season because of it.

Kevin Stefanski isn’t going to make that same mistake. He told the media on Wednesday that the starters will play Friday against the Broncos, with Tua Tagovailoa making his Falcons debut under center. Stefanski added that the goal is for them to play around 10 snaps.

Kevin Stefanski said starters will play one series to ten plays in Friday's preseason game, and from there they will rotate some guys in and out. Tua Tagovailoa will start. (And the plan is subject to change dpeneding on practice today).

— Joe Patrick (@JoePatrick) August 12, 2026

Not everybody should be treated the same when it comes to preseason playing time. Bijan Robinson probably should be wearing street clothes. He’s got nothing to prove, and the risk far outweighs the reward of getting him a few extra live reps.

Tua Tagovailoa probably doesn’t need a ton of action either. He’s a veteran who’s started a lot of games, but greasing the wheels in a new offensive system has its benefits.

Stefanski recognizes that, and said the plan for each player is different. Some starters could see a lot of action throughout the preseason, while others will be handled with more caution. It’s all about having a plan to get each guy ready for Week 1.

As far as who’s starting in the Falcons’ opener against the Steelers, Stefanski isn’t ready to commit to anybody just yet. However, the longer Penix goes without being cleared for 11-on-11 work, the more likely it is we see Tua under center to begin the season.

This article first appeared on SportsTalkATL and was syndicated with permission.

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