Tua Tagovailoa’s Future with the Dolphins in Question
It seems like Tua Tagovailoa’s time with the Dolphins is drawing to a close.
During the NFL Combine, the new general manager, John-Eric Sullivan, was questioned about Tagovailoa’s prospects. “Everything is on the table,” he responded, hinting that trade possibilities are certainly under consideration.
However, one might speculate that this is more of a hopeful notion than a solid plan. The Dolphins are aiming to regain assets from an NFL leader in passing yards for 2023 and pass completion percentage for 2024, all while parting with a player who carries an astonishing dead salary cap charge of $99.2 million.
If the market for trades falls through, the Dolphins could choose to spread Tagovailoa’s dead cap over two years, allowing for a reduction post-June 1st.
“We’re uncertain about the path ahead,” Sullivan commented. He noted that multiple factors are at play and that many discussions are ongoing.
Having previously been with the Packers, Sullivan praised Quinn Ewers, a seventh-round pick in 2025, who ended up starting the last three games while Tagovailoa was sidelined.
“I’m optimistic about his future,” Sullivan reflected. “Even if Tua’s season didn’t wrap up well, he had some positive moments. As in any position, my job is to foster competition.”
Interestingly, Tagovailoa, who is 27, hasn’t yet asked for a trade.
His four-year, $212 million contract ensures he’s under team control until 2028.
That said, one of the complexities in trading Tagovailoa lies in his history with concussions. This scenario differs significantly from trading for someone like Kyler Murray or even bringing in Kirk Cousins, especially with rumors about Cousins potentially being released by the Falcons.
If Miami wishes to stay connected with Green Bay, there’s a chance they might look at the Packers’ backup quarterback, Malik Willis, during free agency.
It’s worth noting that Willis could end up being a sought-after free agent himself, likely commanding a contract over $20 million a year, despite having started only six games in his career.
Should Tagovailoa be let go, there’s the potential he could be a starting option for the Jets, though it’s rare to see trades between division rivals.
