Tua Tagovailoa seeks a fresh start after being benched, leading to speculation he may have played his final game with the Dolphins. Currently, Miami is weighing options on whether to trade him or keep him, but a trade appears more likely. Tagovailoa may still be on the move to mitigate a massive dead cap charge due to his lucrative contract. The current sentiment among analysts suggests that his future with Miami is increasingly uncertain.
By the NumbersTagovailoa is owed $54 million guaranteed in 2026.Releasing him would generate a $99 million dead cap charge, the largest in NFL history.Trading him before June 1st would result in a $45.2 million dead cap hit in 2026. State of PlayThe Dolphins are considering various scenarios regarding Tagovailoa’s future.Analysts are leaning towards a trade being more probable than retaining him.Tagovailoa’s hefty contract complicates any potential moves. What’s Next
Future developments may include trade discussions intensifying as teams assess quarterback options. The Dolphins could face decisions regarding their roster as the offseason approaches. Timing will be crucial, as trades executed before or after June 1st will carry different financial implications.
Bottom Line
Tagovailoa’s future with the Dolphins hangs in the balance as trade possibilities loom. Miami’s financial constraints will shape their decisions, and trading him now could mitigate future cap hits while reshaping the team’s roster. The situation underscores the complexities of player contracts in the NFL.