The Downfall of Tua Tagovailoa

When the Miami Dolphins signed Tua Tagovailoa to a major long-term extension, the expectation was that he would be the long-term answer under center and lead Miami to deep playoff runs. Unfortunately for Dolphins fans, that optimism has since been tempered by a series of setbacks. Between injuries, performance, and coaching many issues have led to the team’s current downturn.

Miami currently sits at 1-6 with their only win coming against the New York Jets at home. In the most recent game, Tua posted a career-worst passer rating of 24.1, threw 3 interceptions and was benched in the fourth quarter in favour of rookie backup Quinn Ewers. The offense only converted 1 of 13 third-downs in that game, which is unacceptable considering Mike McDaniel is an offensive guru. As bad as this season has been, Tua hasn't been the same since his 2024 concussion against the Bills where many medical experts claimed his career should be over. Tua has had multiple concussion diagnoses during his playing career.

The fishies did at one time believe fully in Tua and in July 2024, the Dolphins signed Tua to a four-year, roughly $212.4 million extension. Now flash forward a year and a half later and Tua has publicly criticized unnamed teammates after losses, which has raised questions about his leadership and locker-room discipline.

Now where do the Miami Dolphins go from here? The front office could double-down on Tua, assuming he returns to form. They’d first look to bolster the offensive line, improve supporting cast (running game, receivers) and focus on hiring a new Head Coach.

The Dolphins are at a tricky crossroads. The investment in Tua still gives them a potential path forward, but the any hope they have is increasingly under pressure. If they don’t find consistency soon, they risk being stuck paying big money for a player who can’t deliver at an elite level. While teams like the Bills and Patriots grow into powerhouses in the AFC East. For Tua personally, this is a “prove-it” period. His physical durability, decision making under pressure and ability to elevate his teammates are more under scrutiny than ever. With a rookie QB on the roster and the college QB's already taking shape, the writing is on the wall for a QB change in Miami.