The Miami Dolphins are at a crossroads with Tua Tagovailoa, and it's clear they're contemplating a future without him as their franchise quarterback. However, parting ways with Tua is easier said than done.
Tua's contract is a major hurdle. With $54 million in guarantees, most teams view it as untradeable unless the Dolphins agree to absorb a significant portion. Cutting him would hit Miami with a staggering $99.2 million in salary cap charges, especially if done before his $14 million option bonus kicks in on March 13.
Tua's recent struggles haven't helped his case. Former coach Mike McDaniel benched him with three games left in the 2025 season, signaling a shift in the team's direction. His performance metrics, including a 37.6 QBR ranking him 26th out of 28 qualifying quarterbacks, along with a league-leading 15 interceptions, paint a challenging picture.
This offseason, Miami has seen considerable changes, possibly diminishing Tua's role in their plans. The new leadership wasn't involved in bringing him on board, making his future with the team even more uncertain.
Early in his career, Tua showed flashes of potential, and a fresh start elsewhere might reignite that promise. Until a move is made, however, his name will remain in trade rumors and discussions of potential release, despite the financial implications. The Dolphins seem ready to turn the page.