Dolphins GM: Decision on Tua Tagovailoa's Future 'Getting Close'
Miami, FL - The Miami Dolphins are on the cusp of a significant decision regarding the future of their starting quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa. General Manager Jon-Eric Sullivan confirmed at a recent fan event that the team is nearing a conclusion on Tagovailoa's standing within the organization, signaling a pivotal moment for the franchise.
Competition on the Horizon for Dolphins' QB Room
Speaking to reporters and fans, Sullivan was direct when addressing the most pressing question: Tua Tagovailoa's future. "Of course, we'll be looking at other quarterbacks in this draft," Sullivan stated, acknowledging the team's ongoing evaluation process. "And every draft hereafter." This statement, while standard for any NFL front office, carries particular weight given the current situation with Tagovailoa.
Sullivan elaborated on the conversations he's had with the signal-caller. "Tua was in my office the other day, if I'm being perfectly frank. We had a great conversation," he shared. He acknowledged Tagovailoa's contributions to the Dolphins, stating, "Tua has been a very good player in this league. He's done a lot of really good things for the Miami Dolphins. You guys should be proud to have him and having had him."
However, the GM was also candid about the uncertainty. "I don't know what the future holds right now, and I told Tua that. We're working through some things." The most significant takeaway from Sullivan's remarks was the clear intention to introduce competition into the quarterback position. "What I can tell you is that we're going to infuse competition into that room, whether Tua is part of the room, whether he's not part of the room," Sullivan declared. "We're going to infuse competition into that room, like we will do in every other position."
Tagovailoa is reportedly aware of the team's position. "Tua knows where we are. We've been very honest and upfront, and Tua also knows that he will be the first to know when we make a decision," Sullivan added. He also appealed to the media and fans for patience, stating, "So, if Tua is the first to know, you guys can't be the first to know, and I know that you respect and appreciate that." The definitive closing statement from the GM was, "But we're getting close to a decision. And when we do, we'll let Tua know whether he's going to be part of this or not, and we'll move forward."
The Path Forward: Trade, Release, or Re-Negotiation?
The Dolphins' inclination to move on from Tagovailoa has been a recurring theme since former coach Mike McDaniel benched the former first-round pick during the latter part of the 2025 season. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero, and Mike Garafolo had previously reported that signs pointed towards the new Dolphins leadership parting ways with Tagovailoa before the new league year commences on March 11.
The primary question now revolves around the method of separation. A trade would present a financial challenge for Miami, requiring them to absorb a significant portion of Tagovailoa's $54 million fully guaranteed salary, along with an additional $45.2 million dead-cap charge in 2026. Conversely, cutting Tagovailoa would yield no immediate compensation but would allow the Dolphins to spread the substantial $99 million in dead-cap costs over the next two seasons, potentially offering more financial flexibility.
Tagovailoa's 2025 Season and Potential Outlook
Tagovailoa's 2025 season was a mixed bag. He appeared in 14 games, throwing for 2,260 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions. These numbers, while showing flashes of talent, did not consistently translate into wins or the elite quarterback play the Dolphins have sought. The quarterback himself has reportedly expressed openness to a fresh start after facing challenges in the previous season.
The Dolphins' strategic shift under new management suggests a desire for a different quarterback profile or a player who better fits their offensive scheme moving forward. The infusion of competition, as promised by Sullivan, could manifest in several ways, including drafting a promising rookie quarterback or acquiring a veteran through free agency or trade.
What This Means for the Dolphins and the NFL Landscape
The impending decision on Tua Tagovailoa's future is more than just a personnel move; it's a statement about the direction the Miami Dolphins intend to take under their current leadership. The team's commitment to exploring all avenues, including the draft, signals an ambition to elevate the quarterback position to an elite level.
As the NFL offseason continues to unfold, all eyes will be on Miami. The manner in which they handle the Tagovailoa situation will undoubtedly impact their draft strategy, free agency targets, and overall team trajectory for the upcoming seasons. The league watches with anticipation as the Dolphins prepare to make their next significant move at the most crucial position in professional football.
