Tua Tagovailoa Released by Miami Dolphins Amid Record Dead Money
Tua Tagovailoa will be released by the Miami Dolphins after the start of the new league year, a decision that carries significant financial implications for the franchise. The Dolphins will incur an NFL-record $99 million in dead money against their salary cap due to this release, a move that underscores the challenges the team faces as they look to reshape their roster.
Tagovailoa, who was drafted fifth overall in the 2020 NFL Draft, served as the Dolphins’ starting quarterback since 2021. Over his six seasons with the team, he led the Dolphins to a 44-32 record, including a playoff appearance in 2023. However, his performance has been inconsistent, culminating in a career-high 15 interceptions during the 2025 season, which led to him being benched for the final three games.
The financial ramifications of Tagovailoa’s release are substantial. The dead-cap hit will be split across two years: $67 million in 2026 and $31.8 million in 2027. This unprecedented financial burden reflects the complexities of managing player contracts in the NFL, particularly for a player who was once the highest-paid in franchise history after signing a four-year, $212.4 million extension in 2024.
Despite his struggles, Tagovailoa had notable achievements, including leading the NFL in passing yards in 2023 with 4,624 yards and setting a career-high with 29 touchdown passes. However, his inability to maintain consistent health, having missed a career-high six games in 2024 due to a concussion and a hip injury, raised concerns about his long-term viability as a starting quarterback.
Following Tagovailoa’s release, the Dolphins are left with Quinn Ewers and Cam Miller as the remaining quarterbacks on their roster. The team has indicated plans to draft a quarterback in the upcoming draft, signaling a clear shift in strategy as they seek to infuse competition and establish a strong foundation for future success.
Jon-Eric Sullivan, the Dolphins’ general manager, expressed gratitude for Tagovailoa’s contributions both on and off the field during his tenure. He stated, “On behalf of the Miami Dolphins, I expressed our gratitude for his many contributions, both on the field and in the community, during his six seasons in Miami.” Sullivan also noted the team’s intention to move in a new direction at the quarterback position.
As the Dolphins navigate this transition, everything remains on the table for the former first-round draft pick, including the possibility of a trade. The organization is focused on building a sustained winner, but the uncertainty surrounding their quarterback situation adds an element of unpredictability to their plans moving forward. Details remain unconfirmed.
