Miami, February 2026: The future of Tua Tagovailoa with the Miami Dolphins is no longer certain. After a disappointing 2025 season and major changes within the organization, the franchise has made it clear that “everything is on the table,” including a possible trade.
Once considered the long-term face of the team, Tagovailoa is now part of a bigger evaluation as Miami looks to reshape its roster for the future.
Dolphins Enter a New Era with Major Decisions Ahead
New general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan addressed the situation during the NFL offseason and confirmed that the team is reviewing all options at the quarterback position. While Tagovailoa has not requested a trade, the organization is actively exploring different scenarios.
The Dolphins finished the 2025 season with a 7–10 record, missing the playoffs for the second straight year. With a new front office and coaching direction, Miami is focusing on competition and long-term planning.
Sullivan emphasized three key factors in the decision:
- Overall performance level
- Salary cap impact
- Long-term team vision
The message from the front office suggests that the team is preparing for change rather than assuming Tagovailoa will remain the starter.
Declining Performance Raised Concerns
Tagovailoa’s performance dropped significantly over the past two seasons. After leading the NFL in passing yards in 2023, his production declined in 2024 and fell further in 2025.
Tua Tagovailoa – 2025 Season Stats
| Category | Numbers |
|---|---|
| Games Started | 14 |
| Passing Yards | 2,660 |
| Touchdowns | 20 |
| Interceptions | 15 |
| QBR Ranking | 26th |
He was also benched for the final three games, with rookie Quinn Ewers taking over. The increased interceptions and inconsistent form raised serious questions about his long-term role.
Durability remains another concern, as injuries and past concussions have caused multiple absences during his career.
Contract Situation Makes Decision Complicated
Financial factors are a major part of the situation. Tagovailoa signed a four-year, $212.4 million extension in 2024, and the structure of the deal limits Miami’s flexibility.
Contract Impact if Dolphins Move On
| Scenario | Financial Impact |
|---|---|
| Release before June 1 | ~$99.2 million dead cap |
| Post-June 1 release | Cap hit spread over 2026–2027 |
| Trade | ~$45 million dead cap (approx.) |
Because of the heavy financial penalty, a trade is considered the most realistic option if Miami decides to move forward without him.
Quarterback Alternatives Being Explored
The Dolphins are expected to evaluate multiple options, including:
- Developing Quinn Ewers, who showed promise late in 2025
- Monitoring the free-agent market
- Considering veteran trade targets
- Adding competition through the draft
The team has also indicated interest in bringing strong competition to the quarterback room rather than committing to a single long-term solution immediately.
Fan Reaction Mixed as Replacement Rumors Grow
Possible replacement names have not generated strong excitement among fans. Some supporters believe the team may struggle to find a clear upgrade in the short term.
There is also concern that Miami could move from one turnover-prone quarterback to another without solving the core issue. The uncertainty has created anxiety among long-time Dolphins supporters heading into the 2026 season.
End of an Era in Miami?
Tagovailoa, the No. 5 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, has completed:
- 68% completion rate
- 18,166 passing yards
- 120 touchdowns
- 59 interceptions
He helped the Dolphins reach the playoffs earlier in his career and delivered several strong seasons. However, the lack of deep postseason success, injuries, and recent decline have forced the organization to reconsider its direction.
The tone from the front office suggests the Dolphins are preparing for a transition, even though a final decision has not yet been made.
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Tagovailoa still believes he can perform at a high level, and quarterback demand across the NFL remains strong. If Miami chooses to move on, there is a realistic chance another team could offer him a fresh start.
For now, the Dolphins are at a crossroads. The coming weeks of the offseason could determine whether Tagovailoa remains the franchise quarterback or begins the next chapter of his career elsewhere.
FAQs
Will Tua Tagovailoa be traded in 2026?
A trade is possible, but no final decision has been made. The Dolphins are evaluating all options.
Why are the Dolphins considering moving on?
Declining performance, injuries, salary cap pressure, and a new management direction are the main reasons.
Can Miami release him easily?
No. Releasing him would create a massive dead cap hit, making a trade more likely.
Who could replace Tua?
Options include Quinn Ewers, a free-agent quarterback, a veteran trade target, or a rookie from the draft.
Has Tua requested a trade?
No. He has not asked for a trade and wants to continue playing at a high level.
