Dolphins Face Critical QB Decision: Tagovailoa’s Future in Miami Uncertain
The Miami Dolphins are at a pivotal crossroads regarding their quarterback situation. Head Coach Mike McDaniel confirmed Monday a planned open competition at the position in 2026, leaving the door ajar for Tua Tagovailoa too perhaps regain the starting role, but also signaling a notable shift in the franchise’s thinking.This comes after Tagovailoa was benched in favor of rookie Jake Ewers late in the 2025 season.
This isn’t a decision taken lightly, especially considering Tagovailoa’s recent contract extension. Let’s break down the situation, the factors at play, and what this means for the Dolphins’ future.
A Downward Trend & The Bench Decision
McDaniel acknowledged assessing whether Tagovailoa should continue as the starter – a first for his tenure. This evaluation stemmed from an inability to consistently execute the offense, a concerning development for a player who previously thrived under McDaniel’s guidance.
The coach plans to meet with Tagovailoa early Tuesday to discuss the season and chart a path forward. “I think there’s a lot on the plate of a franchise quarterback,” mcdaniel stated,emphasizing his commitment to helping Tagovailoa improve.
Tagovailoa’s 2025 Performance: A Statistical Dip
The 2025 season marked a clear decline in Tagovailoa’s performance. Here’s a look at the key numbers:
* Passing Yards: 2,660
* Touchdowns: 20
* Interceptions: A career-high 15
* Games Under 200 Passing Yards: 8 (previously only 6 in his prior three seasons combined)
* Games Missed: A career-high 6 due to hip and head injuries.
These statistics represent a significant drop from his 2023 form, where he led the NFL in passing yards. You can see why the coaching staff woudl be concerned.
The Contract complication: A Costly Decision
moving on from Tagovailoa isn’t simple, financially. His four-year, $212.1 million extension, signed in July 2024, carries significant cap implications:
* 2026 Cap Hit: $56.4 million
* Cut Before June 1: $99.2 million dead cap hit
* Cut After June 1: $67.2 million dead cap hit in 2026 (spread over two seasons)
A trade is also possible, but finding a team willing to absorb his salary will be a challenge. The Dolphins need to carefully weigh the financial burden against the potential benefits of a change.
What’s Next for Miami?
The Dolphins have several options to consider:
- Open QB Competition: McDaniel’s stated plan.Ewers will undoubtedly be a key participant,alongside any potential draft picks or free agent acquisitions.
- Tagovailoa’s Enhancement: The team will work with Tagovailoa to regain his previous form. This requires a dedicated effort from both player and coach.
- Trade Exploration: Actively seeking a trade partner, tho this is the most arduous path.
- Release: A last resort,given the substantial cap penalties.
Tagovailoa’s legacy in Miami
Despite the recent struggles, Tagovailoa leaves a positive mark on the franchise. He currently ranks fourth in Dolphins’ passing yards (18,166) and holds the record for career completion percentage (68%) among qualified quarterbacks.
Ultimately, the Dolphins’ decision will shape their future for years to come. It’s a complex situation with no easy answers, but one thing is certain: the quarterback position is now firmly up for grabs.
Sources:
* ESPN: [https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/47517736/mike-mcdaniel-says-dolphins-coach-told-otherwise](https://www.espn.com/nfl
