Dolphins Release Tua Tagovailoa: Dead Cap & Next QB Options

The Miami Dolphins are moving on from quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, officially releasing him with a post-June 1 designation, a move that will result in a record-setting $99 million in dead money over the next two years. The decision, announced Monday by General Manager Jon-Eric Sullivan, brings an end to a tenure marked by flashes of promise and inconsistency.

“I recently informed Tua and his representation that we are going to move in a new direction at the quarterback position and I will be releasing him after the start of the new league year,” Sullivan said in a statement posted to Instagram. He also expressed “great respect” for Tagovailoa as a person and acknowledged his contributions to the franchise.

The Dolphins reportedly explored trade options for Tagovailoa before opting for a release, but were unable to find a suitable partner. Tagovailoa, who signed a four-year, $212.4 million contract in July 2024, was benched last season for rookie Quinn Ewers after 14 regular-season appearances where he threw for 2,660 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions.

The post-June 1 designation allows the Dolphins to spread the financial impact of Tagovailoa’s release over two seasons, mitigating the immediate cap hit. Still, the $99 million dead money figure remains substantial and will significantly impact the team’s financial flexibility in the coming years.

Tagovailoa’s time in Miami began with optimism as the fifth overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. He demonstrated potential early in his career, even leading the league in completion percentage in 2024. However, a high turnover rate and inconsistencies plagued his performance last season, ultimately leading to his benching.

The turning point appeared to come after a particularly rough performance against the Cleveland Browns in November. Following a three-interception outing, Ewers took over at quarterback in the second half, signaling a clear shift in the team’s evaluation of Tagovailoa’s future. Tagovailoa himself publicly expressed dissatisfaction with his play after that game, stating, “Definitely not happy, not proud of where I’m at with my play, with how I’ve gone about things this year. I know I’ve gotta be a lot better — and I’ve been better for the Miami Dolphins in years past.”

Prior to his benching, Tagovailoa also faced criticism for publicly questioning his teammates’ commitment, later apologizing for creating an unnecessary distraction. While he intended to motivate the team, he acknowledged that his comments were detrimental to the locker room atmosphere. Despite finishing the season with a 7-10 record, the Dolphins ultimately moved on from both Tagovailoa and head coach Mike McDaniel.

The Dolphins’ decision to release Tagovailoa leaves a significant void at the quarterback position. The team plans to draft at least one quarterback, but also intends to explore other options in free agency and potentially through trades. Several veteran quarterbacks, including Kyler Murray and Daniel Jones, are available, as is former Green Bay Packers backup Malik Willis. Sullivan indicated the team is open to considering all possibilities.

Sullivan also expressed a desire to retain key players such as running back De’Von Achane, wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, and offensive tackle Austin Jackson. However, the financial constraints created by Tagovailoa’s release may necessitate difficult decisions regarding the team’s roster.

The Dolphins’ preference was to trade Tagovailoa, but the lack of a willing trade partner forced their hand. Now a free agent, Tagovailoa is eligible to sign with any team for the league minimum salary. His future in the NFL remains uncertain, but he believes he can still be a “high-level quarterback” in the league.

The Dolphins’ next move at quarterback will be crucial as they look to rebuild and contend in a competitive AFC. The team’s approach to the draft and free agency will be closely scrutinized as they attempt to find a long-term solution at the most important position in football. The financial implications of the Tagovailoa release will undoubtedly shape their strategy in the coming months, potentially leading them to prioritize value and flexibility over immediate upgrades.

The team’s willingness to trade down in the draft, as Sullivan indicated, suggests they may be seeking to accumulate additional draft capital to address multiple needs. Whether they target a quarterback early in the draft or opt for a veteran free agent remains to be seen, but the Dolphins are clearly entering a period of significant transition at the quarterback position.