Cam Newton’s Take on Tua Tagovailoa

Cam Newton isn’t done addressing Tua Tagovailoa’s recent remarks.

After Tagovailoa commented on Thursday regarding Newton, the former NFL star weighed in, suggesting that the Dolphins’ dismal start to the 2025 season resembles more of a reality TV show than a football team.

“Anyone can start a season 0-3,” Newton stated during a Friday discussion on ESPN’s “First Take.”

He added, “The drama surrounding Miami seems to be more ‘Love Island’ than actual football. While it’s not entirely Tua’s fault, he’s the main ingredient in the mix—and I know what he’s capable of.”

Newton pointed out, “I’ve seen Tua perform at a high level. You don’t just make $53 million randomly on the street.”

This comes as Tagovailoa struggles this season, with Pro Bowl-level stats marred by four interceptions and a low quarterback rating of 35.7.

Newton urged Tagovailoa to step up and take charge, encouraging him to “let it rip.” He emphasized that with teammates like Jalen Waddle and Tyreek Hill and a coach like Mike McDaniel, he has the resources to succeed. “You’ve shown what you can do,” Newton remarked.

Newton’s comments were prompted by Tagovailoa’s recent criticisms of football analysts following the latter’s defense of his own play.

“Anyone can play quarterback in this league,” Tagovailoa said. “Sure, Cam has his opinions, but it’s easier to critique from the sidelines where you don’t have to deal with the pressure.”

He concluded, “I think it’s a lot easier to talk about it than to actually perform the role.”

Newton had previously pointed out that Tagovailoa’s significant extension of four years and $212 million came with high expectations.

“Tagovailoa earns more than several top quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert,” Newton remarked in an earlier episode. “With that kind of paycheck comes higher expectations. It’s about perspective—especially when he has all the right tools at his disposal.”