Tua Tagovailoa’s future because the Miami Dolphins’ beginning quarterback could also be on shaky floor.
Via 9 begins, Tagovailoa is 2-7 and has posted a below-average 43.6 QBR. If his play would not enhance quickly, the staff could make a drastic transfer.
Dolphins are reportedly contemplating benching Tua Tagovailoa
In a story published Sunday, NFL Media insider Ian Rapoport reported the Dolphins may bench Tagovailoa in favor of Zach Wilson or rookie Quinn Ewers later this season.
Rapoport added, “Tagovailoa’s play would actually should fall off for Miami to show to both Wilson or Ewers.” Nevertheless, the QB could also be nearing that time. In his previous 4 video games, the 2020 first-round choose has tossed seven of his 11 interceptions.
Wilson and Ewers have each stuffed in for Tagovailoa throughout blowout losses this season. Former New York Jets flop Wilson accomplished 5-of-8 passes for 32 yards in a 33-8 Week 1 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. Ewers, a seventh-round pick of Texas, completed 5-of-8 passing for 53 yards in a 31-6 Week 7 loss to the Cleveland Browns.
What would occur if the Dolphins benched Tua Tagovailoa?
The Dolphins’ benching of Tagovailoa would sign they need to transfer on from the QB, however that may be difficult. In July 2024, the previous Alabama star signed a four-year, $212.4M contract extension with $167.1M assured. The deal is now an albatross for the franchise.
In accordance with Rapoport, Miami would incur an NFL-record $99.2M cap hit if it launched him this offseason. The Dolphins may designate him as a post-June 1 minimize to unfold the quantity out over the following two seasons ($67.4M in 2026 and $31.8M in 2027). The Denver Broncos did the identical in March 2024, after taking an $85M cap hit following the release of former beginning QB Russell Wilson.
To keep away from these bills, the Dolphins may contemplate buying and selling Tagovailoa with a post-June 1 designation. A pre-June 1 commerce would depart $45.2M in useless cash in opposition to Miami’s wage cap.
However a declining and injury-prone Tagovailoa should not entice many suitors. The sixth-year veteran has had 4 documented concussions in his NFL profession.
The Dolphins ought to hope Tagovailoa will get his act collectively. Per Over The Cap, his deal runs out of assured wage in 2027. Till then, they’re possible caught with the 27-year-old passer.
