Before the NFL officially kicks off the 2026 NFL Draft, several key dates still remain. One of the most notable is the NFL league meeting in Phoenix, Arizona.
Early media sessions in Phoenix have already produced a wave of storylines, including new head coaches addressing key players on their rosters.
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The Atlanta Falcons enter this offseason with new leadership at both head coach and quarterback. The team hired Kevin Stefanski and, shortly after, signed former Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
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When asked about their early relationship, Stefanski spoke glowingly about his new signal-caller.
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Feb 24, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Atlanta Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski speaks at the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Similar journeys to one destination?
He highlighted Tagovailoa’s time at Alabama, along with his personality and work ethic, and called him a “good fit” in Atlanta.
Stefanski also touched on something more personal that stood out during the media session. After his firing from the Cleveland Browns, he understands what Tagovailoa may be feeling after his own release.
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“There’s something to be said when you’re fired,” Stefanski said. “I can attest to that. You want to prove people wrong.”
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Stefanski doesn’t just want to prove people wrong alongside Tagovailoa—he embraces that mindset.
Nov 30, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) warms up prior to game against the New Orleans Saints at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
“You have a chip on your shoulder,” he told the media.
Tagovailoa has always been a competitor. There’s no doubt about that. However, questions have followed him about his ability to handle tough coaching, navigate adversity, and overcome challenging moments.
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If any head coach can relate to the highs and lows of the NFL, it’s Stefanski. Just two years after winning his second NFL Coach of the Year award, the Browns fired him.
Aug 29, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski is shown on the sideline during their game against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-Imagn Images
Stefanski was unequivocally the best coach Cleveland had since its return in 1999. A similar case can be made for Tagovailoa during his time with the Dolphins.
The Falcons boast a roster filled with offensive weapons and strong defensive talent. Now the question remains: can the Stefanski–Tagovailoa duo lead Atlanta to its first playoff berth since 2017?
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