Tua Underwhelms, Final Box Score Stats & Highlights from Broncos vs. Falcons

Tua Tagovailoa wasn't able to exceed expectations in his preseason debut for the Atlanta Falcons on Friday.

During Atlanta's clash with the Denver Broncos, Tagovailoa started under center for two drives in the first quarter before he was replaced by Cooper Rush. The Falcons trailed 7-0 once Rush entered the game.

Tagovailoa finished 3-of-5 for 22 yards without tossing a touchdown or an interception.

The Falcons couldn't move the chains on their first possession, as Tagovailoa mishandled a snap on second down and fell on the ball for a loss of four yards. A short gain on third down resulted in a punt.

On Atlanta's next possession, it picked up a first down with an 11-yard pass from Tagovailoa to tight end Kyle Pitts. The drive stalled out shortly afterwards, though.

It's worth noting that Tagovailoa was facing plenty of early pressure, as the Broncos played their starting defense to open the game. Denver ranked No. 1 in the NFL with 68 sacks last season.

Still, Tagovailoa will look to take a step forward during his next preseason appearance.

He's currently battling with Michael Penix Jr. for Atlanta's starting quarterback role after signing a one-year contract to join the team on March 9. Penix didn't suit up on Friday night, as he has yet to be fully cleared from a torn ACL that ended his 2025 campaign.

The Falcons' next preseason matchup is with the Indianapolis Colts on Aug. 22.