Falcons' Michael Penix Jr. named biggest loser of free agency

The Atlanta Falcons were always going to be a team that had interest in the quarterback market once free agency began.

But many weren't sure who they would target as Michael Penix Jr. recovers from an ACL injury.

Atlanta landed on Tua Tagovailoa, a move that many have lauded the franchise for making.

Not only does it give the Falcons a veteran quarterback who can step in while Penix rehabs, but it also gives them a potential long-term option at quarterback if Tua plays well.

And as NFL.com's Jeffri Chadiha states, that is why Penix is a big loser at the beginning of free agency.

"It's not yet clear when QB Penix will be ready to play again as he rehabilitates a torn ACL," Chadiha wrote. "The Falcons do apparently think it's a good idea to have some insurance on hand -- and, likely, competition once the third-year pro returns to action, which is why former Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is going to be a member of that franchise.

"The Falcons looked pretty formidable when Kirk Cousins was under the center down the stretch last season. Penix had better hope the new regime doesn't anticipate another older veteran being able to do the same things this year."

More: ESPN oddly questions Chiefs' $43 million free agency signing

Penix will be hoping for Tua crash

The worst thing for Penix is that Tua comes in and is immediately effective, and Atlanta, as it did with Cousins, wins games.

Because one thing we know about NFL teams is that they ride the hot hand, and if Tua starts out hot, which is a possibility given the weapons and the fact that he will likely get all first-time reps in camp, it could spell doom for Penix.

The only way he would see the field is if Tua crashes and burns early on, leaving the franchise with only one option, and that is to play him.

So yes, they are teammates, but perhaps Penix will be quietly hoping Tua doesn't light up the league. 

Because if he does, Penix's time as Atlanta's starter might be over.

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