The Miami Dolphins are making a bold move - and it’s one that could reshape their future at the quarterback position. With just a few weeks left in the regular season, the team has decided to bench Tua Tagovailoa and hand the reins to rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers, who will make his first career NFL start this Sunday against the Bengals.
It’s a significant shift, not just because of what it means for the Dolphins’ playoff hopes, but because it signals a potential end to the Tua era in Miami. According to reporting from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, a trade involving Tagovailoa this offseason is now considered the most likely outcome. That would be a seismic move, considering the Dolphins committed over $200 million to their former first-round pick.
But here’s the complication: the contract. Tagovailoa is guaranteed $54 million next season.
If the Dolphins were to cut him outright, they’d be staring down a historic $99.2 million in dead cap - $67.4 million in 2026 and another $31.8 million in 2027. That would smash the current record, which the Broncos set when they moved on from Russell Wilson two years ago.
That’s why a trade is the far more palatable route for Miami. It would allow them to offload at least part of Tua’s salary rather than absorbing the full financial hit. And from what we’re hearing, that’s the preferred path for the Dolphins’ front office if they choose to move on.
Now, let’s talk landing spots. Several teams could be in the market for a starting quarterback in 2026.
The Cardinals, Colts, Raiders, and Vikings all stand out as potential suitors - franchises that either haven’t solidified the position or could be looking for a fresh start. Tagovailoa, still in his prime, could be an intriguing option for a team that believes it’s a quarterback away from making a serious run.
As for Tua, he’s keeping things professional. When asked about the situation, he kept it brief, saying the decision is out of his control - and he’s right.
This isn’t just about performance or even contract numbers. It’s about direction.
The Dolphins have invested time, money, and trust in Tagovailoa. If they’re ready to pivot, it says a lot about where they see themselves headed.
The next few months will be critical. How Ewers performs in his first start - and potentially beyond - could impact how quickly Miami pulls the trigger on a trade.
But make no mistake: this is more than just a late-season lineup change. It’s a franchise-altering decision, and all eyes will be on South Florida to see how it plays out.