ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — The Falcons’ quarterback competition was a hot topic of discussion on day two of minicamp Wednesday.
The Falcons signed Tua Tagovailoa earlier this offseason to replace Kirk Cousins, who spent two disastrous seasons in Atlanta mostly backing up Michael Penix Jr.
“I think competition is gonna be there whether it is said or whether it is not said. Needless to say, I don’t think that changes my relationship with anyone on the team,” Tagovailoa said.
“We know we in competition, but at the same time, we’re on the same team. We got the same goals and that’s to see this team win football games,” Penix said.
Wide receivers Drake London and Zachariah Branch spoke after Wednesday’s practice about what they’ve seen from each QB.
“Two guys who can really just flat out play. A little bit different styles, but at the same time, they’re two dogs. I’m just happy to have them on my team regardless of anything,” London said.
“They’re very talented on the field. Whoever is out there on the field, it feels like the ball is always where it’s supposed to be. That’s definitely a difference I see at the next level. The ball is there pretty fast and both those quarterbacks can put the ball anywhere, any route,” Branch said.
2026 first-round pick cornerback Avieon Terrell also finally got onto the field alongside his older brother A.J.
“It’s weird in a good way. Just being able to be with him in the locker room, in the facility with your brother, in meetings with your brother, and hearing him talk football in the locker room, I never heard that,” Avieon said.
“I feel like that relationship is really cool to see. Imagine going to work with your brother,” safety Jesse Bates III said.
The team signed former Giants wide receiver Antwane Wells Jr.; Valdosta native and former Cincinnati defensive tackle Devonnsha Maxwell; and former New England defensive end Keshawn Banks. All three played in the United Football League.
Meanwhile, the Falcons released wide receiver Casey Washington, defensive tackle Elijah Garcia and defensive end CJ Nunnally IV.
Minicamp closes out on Thursday and up next training camp starts in late July.
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