Kevin Stefanski's experience with three quarterbacks in Cleveland in 2025 has prepared him for the Atlanta Falcons' current situation with Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. The former Browns coach managed Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders, learning valuable lessons about quarterback competitions that he now applies in Atlanta.

Stefanski understands Tagovailoa's fresh start perspective after his release by Miami, which took on $99.2 million in dead money. With Penix rehabbing from ACL surgery, Tagovailoa will receive most reps initially. The Falcons coach emphasized balancing competition with player relationships, acknowledging these are "human beings" who need to feel their best interests are considered.

Penix's health remains the priority, with no set timetable for his return despite his Week 1 expectations. Stefanski praised Penix's rehab efforts while maintaining the Falcons won't rush him. The Falcons' quarterback competition will play out naturally as both players get healthy, with Tagovailoa having the early advantage but Penix expected to eventually compete for the starting job.