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Atlanta, GA – February 19, 2026 – Local filmmaking powerhouse Tyler Perry is keeping fans on the edge of their seats with the upcoming release of Beauty in Black Season 2, Part 2.
When Is Beauty in Black Part 2 Being Released?
The highly anticipated continuation of the hit Netflix drama series premieres March 19, 2026, with all eight episodes dropping at once exclusively on the streaming platform.
Created, written, and directed by Perry through his Tyler Perry Studios, Beauty in Black has quickly become a fan favorite since its debut, blending intense family drama, corporate intrigue, and dark secrets within the world of a glamorous cosmetics empire and an underground trafficking ring.
The series follows exotic dancer Kimmie (played by Taylor Polidore Williams) as her life intertwines with the ruthless, backstabbing Bellarie family behind the beauty brand.
Season 2, Part 1 left viewers reeling from shocking twists, including power shifts within the Bellarie dynasty and escalating threats.
Now, the official trailer teases an explosive showdown between Kimmie and Mallory (Crystle Stewart), with the logline promising: “The ruthless, backstabbing family behind a beauty brand — and an underground trafficking ring — will face a reckoning.”
New boss. New rules. Trust no one.
The Bellarie family matriarch settles into her role as chief operating officer, while characters like Jules (Charles Malik Whitfield) desperately search for answers about his son’s coma, and Olivia (Debbi Morgan) confronts a dangerous new enemy. The stakes are higher than ever as betrayals, unlikely alliances, and intense confrontations unfold.
Netflix recently confirmed that Beauty in Black will conclude with Season 3, making this second half of Season 2 a pivotal chapter in the story’s arc.
Atlanta audiences have long embraced Perry’s storytelling, from his blockbuster films to series like Sistas and The Oval, many of which film right here in the city at his massive Tyler Perry Studios. Beauty in Black continues that tradition of bold, unapologetic drama that resonates with viewers across the country.
Mark your calendars: Stream Beauty in Black Season 2, Part 2 starting March 19 — only on Netflix. Part 1 is currently available for those needing a refresher before the big return.
What are you most excited to see in the new episodes? Sound off in the comments below!
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Ursula Simmons of Hapeville enjoys going downtown Atlanta to eat and have a good time. She’s looking forward to having even more of a good time with the news that the city’s South Downtown district will be an “open container” zone.
”That’s my kind of party, baby,” the New Orleans native said.
Yes, Atlanta is set to launch its first-ever open container district in the South Downtown area, following approval by the Atlanta City Council.
The new South Downtown Entertainment District will permit adults 21 and older to carry and consume alcoholic beverages in designated public spaces managed by the city.
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This nearly 16-acre zone encompasses parts of historic areas like Hotel Row and Underground Atlanta, conveniently located within walking distance of Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The district includes sections of several streets, such as:
- Broad Street
- Martin Luther King Jr. Drive SW
- Forsyth Street
- Mitchell Street
- Ted Turner Drive SW
- Nelson Street
- Trinity Avenue
- Peachtree Street
- Alabama Street SW
The rules are scheduled to take effect in mid-April 2026 (specifically around April 15, according to related reports) and will remain in place at least through January 2027.
Councilmember Jason Dozier, a key proponent, emphasized that the initiative aims to boost walkability, draw more visitors, support local businesses, and maintain vibrancy in the area.
He highlighted its relevance for major upcoming events, including the World Cup, stating: “South Downtown is where a lot of our city’s activities are going to be, not just the World Cup but also in the years beyond,” and expressed confidence that the change will help keep the district active long-term.
Councilmember Alex Wan also helped define the boundaries. Overall, city leaders view the district as a step toward transforming South Downtown into a more appealing destination for tourism, events, and everyday foot traffic.
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Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), the world’s busiest passenger hub, took to social media on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, with a clear message for domestic flyers: stick to the Domestic Security Checkpoints.
In an official X post from @ATLairport, accompanied by a TSA Wait Times Update graphic timestamped 10:40 AM, the airport highlighted growing chaos at the International Terminal Checkpoint.
Atlanta Airport Urges Domestic Travelers: Stop Using the International Security ‘Hack’ – It’s Backfiring Amid TSA Shortages
The culprit? A surge of domestic passengers trying to shortcut long domestic lines by clearing security in the international terminal and hopping the SkyTrain (Plane Train) to reach domestic concourses.mr1tV”LARGE”VukdW”LARGE”
The full advisory reads:
“Currently, at Hartsfield-Jackson, we are seeing increased congestion at the International Terminal Checkpoint caused by domestic travelers attempting to bypass lines in the Domestic Terminal.If you are flying domestically, please use the Domestic Security Checkpoints. At this time, wait times at the International Checkpoint are longer than those at the Domestic Terminal.
We appreciate your patience and cooperation as our TSA partners and airport teams work to move passengers safely and efficiently.”
By mid-morning, the strategy had flipped: international waits hit around 90 minutes in spots, while domestic main and north checkpoints hovered at 47–57 minutes.
Why This Is Happening Now
This isn’t just random congestion. ATL has battled unusually long security lines for weeks due to a partial U.S. government shutdown affecting Department of Homeland Security funding.
Read up on how to beat airline delays.
TSA officers—essential workers—are operating without full paychecks, resulting in elevated call-out rates (reported at 36% at ATL). Multiple domestic checkpoints have closed temporarily, and spring-break travel volumes have piled on the pressure.
Matters worsened on March 16 when severe thunderstorms triggered FAA ground stops, sparking more than 1,300 delays and hundreds of cancellations.
Lines snaked through terminals, and frustrated passengers turned to a long-circulating “life hack”: using the international checkpoint (often quieter under normal conditions) for domestic flights, then riding the SkyTrain to their gates.
Social media had amplified the tip for years, but the current crisis made it go viral—until too many people tried it at once.
Airport officials, including General Manager Rickey Smith, have repeatedly urged travelers to arrive three hours early and check real-time wait times at atl.com/times.
Traveler Reactions and Broader Impact
On X and other platforms, reactions ranged from annoyance to dark humor. Some passengers thanked the airport for the clarification; others pointed fingers at Washington over the funding standoff.
Airlines like Delta issued travel waivers, but missed flights and frayed nerves remain common.
The situation isn’t unique to ATL. Similar staffing-driven delays have hit major hubs nationwide, turning routine security into hours-long ordeals.
Tips for Smoother Travel at ATL Right Now
- Use the right checkpoint: Domestic flyers—use Domestic Terminal options (Main, North, South PreCheck, etc.). International checkpoint is for international departures only in this context.
- Arrive early: Three hours minimum is the official recommendation.
- Monitor live data: Visit atl.com/times or the ATL app for checkpoint wait times.
- PreCheck & Clear: If enrolled, stick to dedicated lanes—they’re still moving faster.
- Stay updated: Follow @ATLairport on X and other official channels for real-time alerts.
As the shutdown drags on without resolution, ATL and TSA teams continue working to keep passengers moving.
The airport’s message is simple: cooperation helps everyone get where they’re going faster and safer.
Safe travels— and remember, the “hack” that once saved minutes is now costing everyone time. Monitor those official channels, pack your patience, and fly smart.
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With passengers at TSA checkpoints at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) experiencing Atlanta airline delays of up to an hour due to the U.S. government shutdown, we know that travelers are doing all they can to keep it together. You can do it!
In this article, we’ve compiled proven tips from FAA experts, Delta Air Lines, and local travelers.
These strategies can save you time, stress, and money as you navigate the world’s busiest airport. Print this out or save it to your phone before heading to Concourse T!
Arrive Early—Way Earlier Than Usual
Why? Staffing cuts mean longer security lines and gate changes. TSA recommends three hours for domestic flights and four hours for international from ATL.
Pro Tip: Use the ATL SkyTrain to zip between terminals (it runs every 2 minutes). Park in the hourly deck near Domestic Terminal for quickest access—avoid the daily lot unless you’re staying overnight.
-Traveler Hack: Maria Gonzalez, the teacher we spoke to yesterday, suggests grabbing Chick-fil-A in the Atrium upon arrival: “It beats terminal food lines later!”
2. Download Apps & Enable Alerts NOW
Must-Have Apps:
Delta App | Real-time gate changes & rebooking | 80% of flights covered; free lounge access alerts |
FlightAware | Live tracking for all airlines | Delay predictions based on ATL ARTCC data |
ATL Airport App | Security wait times & SkyTrain status | MARTA connector schedules |
FAA Airport Status | National shutdown updates | Push alerts for ATL-specific ground stops |
Quick Set-Up: Turn on notifications 24 hours before your flight. Check for “Ground Delay Program” warnings—ATL’s are spiking 53% this week.3. Pack Smart for the Long Haul
Essentials in Your Carry-On
- Portable charger (outlets are packed)
- Neck pillow & eye mask (delays hit evenings hardest)
- Snacks & water bottle (refill stations everywhere)
- $20 cash for vending machines (cards glitch under stress)
ATL Bonus: Concourse F has free charging stations & quiet zones. Families: Head to the Kidspace play area in Terminal S—it’s a delay-buster.
4. Know Your Airline Rights & Perks
Delta (ATL’s Big Dog): Meal vouchers for delays >3 hours; free rebooking if >2 hours late. Call 800-221-1212 or use kiosk help.
- Other Airlines: United/Southwest offer similar—check bags free if rebooked. No fault? Still get $10 snack credit under DOT rules.
- Shutdown Special: Airlines for America says all carriers are waiving change fees through November 1. Text “DELAY” to your airline for instant updates.
- Local Alert: Georgia AG Chris Carr’s office reports a 20% spike in travel complaints—file at consumer.ga.gov if denied perks.
5. Alternative Routes to Dodge the Chaos
Ground Options: MARTA’s red/gold line from downtown to ATL = 15 minutes, $2.50. Skip rideshares (Uber surge pricing up 40%).
Flight Swaps: Consider Spirit or Frontier for cheaper reroutes to Orlando/Tampa—fewer delays on budget carriers right now.
Backup Plan: If flying out, drive to Chattanooga (CHM) airport—1.5 hours north, lighter traffic. Or Greenville (GSP), SC—2 hours east.
Holiday Heads-Up: Book backup trains via Amtrak’s Crescent (ATL to NYC) now—seats filling fast with flyers bailing.Final Word
Traveling is much more a hassle than it used to be. Patience is key, but preparation wins. Check atl.com/delaytracker before you leave home. Over 200,000 passengers cleared ATL yesterday despite hurdles— you can too!
If you’re thinking about traveling abroad, make sure you get your passport, as soon as you can.
To save money, look for the cheapest flights from Atlanta that are on sale. To keep costs down, use these travel hacks to save money and time.
To Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is so accessible.
Not only is it the world’s busiest airport, but it’s state-of-the-art in every way. If you’re interested in traveling around Atlanta via car or even on scooter, here’s what to know.
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*Stuck in line? Snap a photo and tag @Atlantahappenings for real-time shoutouts. Safe travels, Peach State! Email tips@tjohnson@atlantafi.com.
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Alpharetta, GA – March 17, 2026 – In a significant development for the future of North Point Mall and the greater Atlanta metro area, developers Jamestown and property owner New York Life have submitted a zoning application to the City of Alpharetta.
The proposal seeks to rezone and redevelop the nearly 100-acre site into a vibrant, walkable, sports-anchored entertainment district explicitly designed to position the location as a prime candidate for landing a National Hockey League (NHL) expansion team.
Alpharetta’s goals are not theirs alone. Forysth is also vying for an NHL franchise.
Major Step Forward: Jamestown Files Zoning Application for North Point Mall
The filing, submitted earlier this month, marks a concrete advancement in plans first announced in February when New York Life tapped Atlanta-based Jamestown – renowned for transforming Ponce City Market into one of the city’s most successful mixed-use destinations – to lead pre-development efforts and entitlements for the aging mall property.
North Point Mall, acquired by New York Life in 2021, has long been eyed for a major overhaul amid declining traditional retail traffic.
The vision now centers on creating a mixed-use hub featuring a state-of-the-art, NHL-ready arena as its centerpiece, surrounded by retail spaces, multifamily housing, hotels, restaurants, and other entertainment amenities.
Proponents argue this “sports-anchored” approach would generate economic momentum, boost tourism, and create jobs while capitalizing on Alpharetta’s growing population and strategic location in north Fulton County.
This Alpharetta proposal represents the second active effort in the metro area to bring NHL hockey back to Atlanta following the relocation of the Thrashers to Winnipeg in 2011.
A separate group, led by developer Vernon Krause, is advancing plans for “The Gathering at South Forsyth” in neighboring Forsyth County – a multi-billion-dollar mixed-use project that also includes an NHL-caliber arena and has secured key approvals and incentives from local officials.
The competition highlights strong interest from NHL expansion discussions, with metro Atlanta’s market size, corporate base, and fan enthusiasm seen as assets despite past challenges in sustaining franchises here.
City of Alpharetta officials have previously supported redevelopment momentum at the site, including the creation of a tax allocation district (TAD) in 2025 covering a broader area that includes North Point Mall to help fund infrastructure and public improvements.
Jamestown and New York Life emphasized that the zoning application is an early step in a longer process. Final plans will evolve through community input, city reviews, and feasibility studies already underway.
No specific timeline for construction or NHL franchise decisions has been announced, as any league expansion would ultimately depend on approvals from NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman and the league’s Board of Governors.
Local residents and business owners have expressed a mix of excitement and curiosity about the potential transformation.
“This could put Alpharetta on the map in a whole new way,” said one nearby resident. “An NHL team would be huge for the area – games, events, visitors – but we need to make sure traffic and growth are managed well.”The Alpharetta City Council is expected to begin reviewing the zoning application in the coming weeks, with public hearings likely as part of the standard process.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for updates on this evolving story, including any community meetings or further details from city officials.
Whether this becomes the winning bid to return pro hockey to the metro remains to be seen, but the push is gaining real momentum.
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Mark your calendars! Panda Fest Atlanta is just a few short weeks away, transforming the Pinnacle Lot at Atlantic Station into a vibrant celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) culture from April 3-5, 2026.
The popular outdoor festival is back with an expanded and dynamic lineup featuring more than 80 food vendors, over 20 artisan merchants, and a full schedule of entertaining cultural performers.
Panda Fest: Food, Fun and Festivities
Attendees can expect a mouthwatering array of dishes, refreshing drinks, unique artisanal goods, and plenty of panda-themed excitement for all ages.
Organizers promise an expanded experience this spring, featuring new vendors, fresh programming, and immersive attractions designed to draw crowds for a full day of exploration and discovery.
“Atlanta has always been a special city for Panda Fest,” said BiuBiu Xu, Founder of Panda Fest. “The curiosity, the energy, and the way people show up ready to try something new helped shape what the festival is today.
This spring, we’re bringing back everything people have come to love, along with new vendors, performances and experiences that invite our guests to spend the day exploring, tasting new bites, connecting with each other, and learning about Asian culture.”
Food remains the star of the show at Panda Fest. Attendees can look forward to more than 80 food vendors and trucks dishing out over 200 unique offerings inspired by cuisines from across Asia. The lineup ranges from beloved street food classics to innovative, festival-exclusive creations.
Vendors hail from major food scenes in cities like New York and Los Angeles, blended with a robust selection of local Atlanta favorites for a truly national-yet-rooted flavor profile.
Most items are prepared fresh on-site for maximum sensory appeal, with options across price points—including plenty of budget-friendly picks under $10 and larger shareable plates, some bundled with fun branded keepsakes.
Beyond the eats, the festival boasts a curated artisan marketplace packed with vendors offering apparel, accessories, artwork, and gifts rooted in Asian culture and craftsmanship.
Live performances and hands-on demonstrations will fill the weekend schedule, spotlighting everything from traditional lion dances and cultural arts like sugar painting, paper cutting, and calligraphy to modern vibes such as K-pop dance crews and theatrical presentations. (Full programming details will drop closer to the event.)
Signature playful elements are returning too: oversized, custom Atlanta-themed panda installations, the crowd-pleasing panda bounce ring, themed treats, and exclusive merchandise that have become festival staples.
Panda Fest first launched in Atlanta in early 2025, and the city’s enthusiastic reception helped propel its rapid expansion.
The event has since grown to span 11 cities and produced 13 events across markets including Austin, Boston, Charlotte, Dallas, Hartford, Nashville, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Seattle, and the Twin Cities.
Looking ahead, Panda Fest plans further national growth in 2026 while keeping Atlanta as one of its flagship and most beloved locations.
Tickets and more details will be available soon via the official Panda Fest website. Mark your calendars—Atlanta’s favorite panda-powered party is back and bigger than ever!
Final Word
Atlanta has a lot of cool things to do and places to eat, including some of the top soul food joints and remarkable Thai food spots. Explore the city.
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Sonia Williams loves what’s happening in her neighborhood these days. The Sylvan Hills resident can’t wait for all the dust to clear at the corner of Murphy Avenue and Sylvan Road in southwest Atlanta.
”They’re starting to clean up all the vacant lots,” the Delta Air Lines employee said. “And when they enclose the lots in fences, that’s the look of progress.”
The ambitious Murphy Crossing redevelopment project is set to transform a 20-acre site in Atlanta’s Oakland City neighborhood into a vibrant mixed-use destination, with plans calling for approximately 625 new residential units.Located at 1050 Murphy Avenue, the BeltLine-owned property sits adjacent to the Westside Trail and holds potential as a future MARTA infill station site.
It lies near ongoing revitalization efforts, including the nearby Oakland Exchange project, which is converting historic warehouses across Sylvan Road into affordable housing and commercial space.
The Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. is leading the effort as master planner and co-developer following the termination of a prior development agreement with Culdesac Inc. and Urban Oasis in early 2025.
The organization now plans to issue phased requests for proposals (RFPs) to select development partners.
Key elements of the proposed buildout, spread across five phases, include:
- A blend of apartments and townhomes totaling roughly 625 units (specific affordable vs. market-rate breakdowns will likely emerge in future RFPs, with expectations for some affordable and for-sale commitments).
- Around 82,000 square feet of commercial space.
- Approximately 70,000 square feet dedicated to retail.
- Roughly 103,000 square feet of light-industrial uses, which could range from makers spaces and barbershops to veterinarian clinics.
- Preservation of existing historic warehouses as an integral part of the design.
- A total of 1,711 parking spaces, including 786 allocated for non-residential uses.
The project is currently in the entitlement phase. Pre-development milestones have been completed, and community engagement continues.
A Development of Regional Impact (DRI) review and City of Atlanta rezoning application are expected to wrap up in winter or early spring 2026. Horizontal site work and land-disturbance permitting are targeted for fall/winter 2026, with Phase 1 RFP releases on the horizon.
Andrea Foard, the BeltLine’s senior development manager, emphasized a phased approach: “We’re not going to develop this all at one time.”
Ryan Snodgrass, a senior urban designer at Perkins & Will, highlighted the flexibility of the light-industrial component, noting it could accommodate diverse small-scale businesses.
As planning advances through 2026, local residents and advocates are expected to advocate strongly for firm commitments around affordable housing levels, support for neighborhood-serving retail, job creation, and other community benefits during ongoing engagement sessions.
The site is viewed as a major catalyst for growth in southwest Atlanta, leveraging its BeltLine proximity and transit potential to drive economic activity while balancing historic preservation and new density.
Downtown Atlanta’s development landscape has undergone significant transformation in recent years, driven by large-scale mixed-use projects, infrastructure upgrades, and a focus on revitalizing the city’s historic core. These changes reflect a broader effort to make Downtown more vibrant, walkable, and economically robust, particularly in preparation for events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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It won’t be anything historic, but this winter storm is one to watch.
The National Weather Service in Peachtree City has upgraded its Freeze Watch to a full Freeze Warning for most of North and Central Georgia, including all of metro Atlanta.
The warning goes into effect at 11 p.m. tonight (Monday, March 16) and continues until 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 17.
Freeze Warning in Effect for Metro Atlanta: Prepare for Hard Freeze Tonight
Overnight lows are forecast to drop into the mid- to upper 20s, with some spots possibly reaching near 20°F. Winds will make it feel even colder. A hard freeze is likely, posing a significant risk to any spring vegetation, crops, and unprotected outdoor plumbing.
This sharp cooldown follows Monday’s stormy weather and strong cold front. Another round of sub-freezing temperatures is possible again Wednesday morning, so stay alert for updates.
Warming centers are open across the region for anyone without adequate heat. Check with your county emergency management office or visit Atlanta News First for locations and hours.
Steps to Stay Warm and Safe
Here are simple, effective ways to protect yourself and your family during this brief but intense cold snap:
- Layer up indoors and out: Wear multiple thin layers of clothing. Keep hats, gloves, and scarves handy even inside.
- Stay inside if possible: Limit time outdoors, especially after dark. Check on elderly neighbors, young children, and pets.
- Use blankets and space heaters safely: Electric blankets and battery-powered devices are great. Never use ovens, grills, or stoves for heat.
- Keep pets inside: Bring dogs, cats, and other animals indoors or into a sheltered, heated space.
- Hydrate and eat well: Warm soups, teas, and hearty meals help maintain body heat.
- Have an emergency plan: Keep flashlights, extra batteries, and a battery-powered radio ready in case power goes out.
Vulnerable residents (seniors, those with medical conditions, or no heat) should head to a warming center immediately.
Home Maintenance Tips to Prevent Damage
A hard freeze this late in March can catch homeowners off guard. Follow these quick steps now while it’s still daylight:
- Protect your pipes: Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate. Let faucets drip slowly (a thin stream) overnight. Disconnect and drain garden hoses.
- Insulate outdoor spigots and exposed pipes: Wrap them with towels, foam covers, or old blankets and secure with duct tape.
- Safeguard plants: Bring potted plants indoors. Cover in-ground flowers, vegetables, and shrubs with frost cloth, old sheets, or mulch. Avoid plastic that can trap moisture.
- Check your heating system: Test your furnace or heat pump now. Replace air filters if needed and keep vents clear.
- Prep your car: Park in a garage if possible. Have an ice scraper ready and check your battery and antifreeze.
- Unplug outdoor electronics: Bring in string lights, extension cords, and tools that could be damaged by freezing.
Final Word
The National Weather Service stresses that this freeze could damage early spring growth, so farmers and gardeners should take extra precautions.
Stay warm and safe, Atlanta! This cold snap should be short-lived—warmer air returns by mid-week.
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This weekend, a swath of a major thoroughfare in Georgia’s largest city will be transformed into a pedestrian oasis. Atlanta Streets Alive is happening again and if you don’t know, it’s free.
This free, family-friendly event transforms Peachtree Street into a car-free zone for walking, biking, and playing. Enjoy live music, street performances, and community activities that promote active transportation.
Where Is Atlanta Streets Alive This Weekend?
Atlanta Streets Alive 2026 returns with seven scheduled dates, starting March 22, 2026, featuring new routes including MLK Jr. Drive, Peachtree St, and the Westside Stride.
Events generally run from 2 PM – 6 PM, with streets closed to traffic to allow walking, biking, and skating, often aligning with FIFA World Cup festivities.
Atlanta Streets Alive: What to Bring
To make the most of your Atlanta Streets Alive experience, here’s a concise list of recommended items to bring, based on the event’s nature as a car-free, outdoor, community-focused activity:
- Comfortable shoes or gear: Bring sneakers for walking, a bicycle, skates, or a scooter for exploring the route. Electric bikes/scooters are allowed but keep speeds safe. Bike repair stations are available, but a basic repair kit (tire pump, patch kit) is handy.
- Water bottle: Stay hydrated during the event, especially in Atlanta’s warm weather. Refill stations may be available at activity hubs.
- Sun protection: Sunscreen, hats, or sunglasses for daytime events, as it’s a rain-or-shine outdoor event.
Atlanta Streets Alive: A History
Atlanta Streets Alive is an open streets initiative that temporarily closes city streets to cars, creating car-free spaces for people to walk, bike, skate, and engage in community activities.
It promotes active transportation, community engagement, local businesses, and sustainable urban living, inspired by global open streets movements like Bogotá’s Ciclovía. The program is presented by the Atlanta Department of Transportation (ATLDOT) with support from Propel ATL and the Atlanta community.
It began in May 2010, organized by the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition (now part of Propel ATL), with the first event closing 1.5 miles of streets in Downtown Atlanta for recreational use.
Final Word
In addition to Streets Alive, Atlanta is alive in other ways this weekend. The city is also home to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Atlanta Opera, offering world-class performances for music lovers.Atlanta has a lot of cool things to do and places to eat, including some of the top soul food joints and remarkable Thai food spots.
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Atlant, GA – March 13, 2026 – The Atlanta Falcons’ quarterback situation remains wide open heading into the 2026 season, and new general manager Ian Cunningham made that crystal clear during a virtual news conference on Friday.
Speaking about the team’s recent signing of veteran quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to a one-year deal following his release from the Miami Dolphins, Cunningham stressed that no one is handed the starting job.
“For Tua coming in here, he knows he’s coming in here to compete, like Michael (Penix Jr.) knows he is coming in to compete, everybody quite frankly, not just those two at the quarterback position,” Cunningham said. “There are no starters right now.”
The comments come after the Falcons agreed to terms with Tagovailoa, a former Pro Bowl selection known for his quick release and accuracy. Tagovailoa was in Flowery Branch on Friday undergoing his physical, making the move official pending final paperwork.
Meanwhile, Michael Penix Jr., the left-handed quarterback drafted eighth overall in 2024, is working his way back from a torn ACL suffered in November.
Penix has shown flashes in limited action but enters the offseason as a competitor rather than the presumed starter.
Cunningham’s remarks underscore a merit-based approach under the new regime, which includes president of football operations Matt Ryan, head coach Kevin Stefanski, and the revamped front office. The team has prioritized open competition across the roster as it looks to rebound from back-to-back 8-9 seasons.
“Everybody’s coming in to compete,” Cunningham reiterated. “That’s just how we operate. We want to have open conversations and communication. I feel like we did that in regards to Michael and Tua.”
The Falcons have already communicated directly with Penix—Stefanski spoke with him personally, and Cunningham reached out via his agent—ensuring transparency amid the addition of Tagovailoa.
With both quarterbacks being left-handed, the setup allows for schematic continuity in Stefanski’s offense, which emphasizes quick decisions, timing routes, and yards after catch. Tagovailoa’s experience could provide stability while Penix continues his rehab, but nothing is guaranteed.
Fans in Atlanta can expect a real battle this spring and summer as the team builds toward training camp. In Cunningham’s view, competition breeds excellence—and right now, the QB1 job is up for grabs.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFalconsNews.com for more updates on the Falcons’ quarterback competition, free agency moves, and preparations for the 2026 season.
