Tua Tagovailoa says his best football is ahead and he is embracing a fresh start with the Falcons, where he could compete for the starting job with Michael Penix Jr. as Penix recovers from an ACL injury.
Miami's 2026 dead-money total climbs to about $175 million after releasing Tua Tagovailoa and trading Jaylen Waddle, with Tagovailoa costing roughly $99 million over the next two seasons and the Waddle deal adding more than $26 million in dead cap for the upcoming year, plus other former Dolphins contributing to the bill as the team heads into the draft.
After a volatile six seasons with the Dolphins, Tua Tagovailoa's 2025 season proved to be his nadir, ending with a Week 15 benching and Dolphins' record $99 million dead-money cap hit to part ways; he landed with the Atlanta Falcons, where an intro press conference framed the move as a reset. While he publicly acknowledged the need to play better, questions remain about a decline in arm strength and overall play, making a potential Miami return unlikely and effectively closing his Dolphins era.
Dolphins GM Jon-Eric Sullivan indicated that everything is on the table, including trading Tua Tagovailoa, signaling Miami’s pursuit of a new franchise QB. The team favors a trade over a release and has discussed options like Quinn Ewers and Malik Willis; Tagovailoa’s return appears unlikely. A post‑June 1 release could be used to absorb the contract, but that route is viewed as improbable, with a potential weekend announcement mentioned.
Tua Tagovailoa expressed disappointment over being benched as the Dolphins' starting quarterback, stating he is unsure about his future with the team and focusing on supporting his teammates. Coach Mike McDaniel replaced him with rookie Quinn Ewers for the upcoming game, citing Ewers' better chances to win and playing with more conviction. Tagovailoa acknowledged his performance has not met standards, leading to the benching, but remains committed to helping the team regardless of his role.
Miami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel regrets his comments about Tua Tagovailoa's remarks on player meetings, acknowledging they were inappropriate after a loss. McDaniel supports Tagovailoa and emphasizes communication issues regarding player-led meetings, with the team's coaching job security currently stable despite recent losses. The team is focusing on upcoming games and managing injuries, with ongoing discussions about team dynamics and leadership.
Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa responded to criticism from Cam Newton, admitted he hasn't played his best this season, and emphasized the team's need for a win to avoid a poor start. He also discussed his injury-related changes and his focus on improving, despite public scrutiny and high expectations.
Former NFL players and analysts criticize the Miami Dolphins' offense and Tua Tagovailoa's performance, citing scheme issues, decision-making errors, and lack of offensive weapons as key problems contributing to their offensive struggles this season.