Falcons Depth Chart Revealed: Shocking Surprises vs. Broncos
Atlanta Falcons Release First Preseason Depth Chart: What You Need to Know
The Big News
The Atlanta Falcons have shared their unofficial depth chart just before their first preseason game of the year. Think of a depth chart like a team roster that shows who’s starting, who’s the backup, and who’s third-string at every position.
Game Alert: Falcons vs. Denver Broncos
When: This Friday
Kickoff: 7:00 PM ET
Where: Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta’s home field)
What the Coach Said
Head coach Kevin Stefanski spoke to reporters on Wednesday and laid out the plan:
- Starters will play — but not the whole game
- They’ll get at least one series (a set of offensive or defensive plays)
- Maximum of 10 plays — whichever comes first
- This is standard for the first preseason game — like a "warm-up lap" before the real season
The Quarterback Situation Explained
Here’s where it gets interesting:
| Player | Role for This Game | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Tua Tagovailoa | Starting QB Friday | Getting the first snaps in the preseason opener |
| Michael Penix Jr. | Listed with asterisk (*) | Currently injured — moved to bottom of depth chart |
Important: Coach Stefanski made it very clear — Tua starting this Friday does not mean he’s the Falcons’ starting quarterback for the 2026 regular season. This is just for the preseason game.
How to Read the Depth Chart (Beginner’s Guide)
The depth chart uses a simple system:
- Top name = Starter (first-team)
- Second name = Primary backup
- Third name = Third-string / developmental player
- *Asterisk () next to name** = Player is currently injured
Injured players to watch:
- Michael Penix Jr. (quarterback) — marked with *
- Jawaan Taylor (offensive lineman) — marked with *
These players are listed at the bottom of their position groups because they can’t practice or play right now.
Why Preseason Games Matter (Even If They "Don’t Count")
Think of preseason like scrimmages before the real season:
- Coaches evaluate players in live game action
- Rookies get their first NFL experience
- Backups fight for roster spots
- Starters knock off rust (but play very little)
- Teams test new plays and schemes
The record doesn’t matter — the evaluation does.
What to Watch For Friday Night
Key Storylines
- Tua Tagovailoa’s command of the offense in live action
- Rookie performances — first NFL game jitters vs. confidence
- Backup QB battle — who steps up behind the starters?
- Offensive line cohesion — especially with Jawaan Taylor out
- Special teams standouts — often where roster spots are won
Position Battles to Track
- Wide receiver depth — after the starters
- Cornerback rotation — nickel vs. outside roles
- Running back pecking order — who gets carries after the starter?
- Tight end usage — blocking vs. receiving roles
Summary
- Falcons release unofficial depth chart before first preseason game
- Friday vs. Broncos at 7 PM ET in Atlanta
- Starters play ~10 plays max — standard preseason approach
- Tua Tagovailoa starts at QB but not named 2026 starter
- Injured players (Penix Jr., Taylor) marked with asterisks at bottom
- Real value: Player evaluation, not the final score
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
What exactly is a "depth chart"?
A depth chart is a visual list showing the ranking of players at each position. #1 is the starter, #2 is the main backup, #3 is next in line, etc. Coaches update it weekly based on performance, injuries, and matchups.
Why is Tua Tagovailoa playing for the Falcons? Isn’t he on the Dolphins?
The source content states Tua Tagovailoa will start at quarterback for the Falcons in this preseason game. This appears to be what the team announced for this specific game, though Coach Stefanski emphasized this doesn’t determine the 2026 regular season starter.
What does the asterisk (*) mean next to a player’s name?
The asterisk indicates that player is currently injured and not practicing/playing. They’re placed at the bottom of their position group on the depth chart until they’re healthy enough to return.
Do preseason games count toward the regular season record?
No. Preseason games (usually 3 per team) are exhibition games. The record resets to 0-0 when the regular season starts in September. They’re for evaluation and preparation only.
Why do starters only play 10 plays?
To minimize injury risk while still getting live game reps. The regular season is what matters — coaches don’t want to lose key players in games that don’t count toward playoffs.
When will we know the real starting quarterback for 2026?
Coaches typically name regular season starters after the final preseason game (usually mid-August), once they’ve evaluated everyone in practices and all three preseason games.