The Miami Dolphins signed quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to a four-year, $212.4 million contract extension before the 2024 season, aiming to secure his presence long term. However, two years later, the former general manager Chris Grier is no longer with the team, and Tagovailoa’s future as Miami’s starting quarterback appears uncertain amid a series of setbacks.
Setbacks and Struggles Marking Tagovailoa’s Miami Tenure
Since signing the lucrative extension, nearly every challenge imaginable has affected Tagovailoa and the Dolphins’ season outcomes. During Week 2 of 2024, Tagovailoa suffered a concussion, his second since the 2022 season, which placed him on injured reserve. Later that season, he sustained a hip injury to the same hip that prematurely ended his college career at Alabama. These injuries contributed to Miami’s first losing record since 2019.
The 2025 season did not bring improvement; despite staying healthy, Tagovailoa’s performance dropped to its lowest levels since his rookie year. His quarterback rating and QBR were at career lows, prompting the Dolphins to bench him after their Week 15 defeat to the Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday Night Football. This move signaled a likely end to his role as the team’s quarterback.
Critical Opinions from Inside the Dolphins Organization
Criticism of Tagovailoa has surfaced from within the Dolphins ranks. Kim Bokamper, former Dolphins linebacker and current broadcaster, harshly criticized Tagovailoa’s 2025 performance:
“I don’t want to see him back… he had nothing to give [in 2025] – can’t run, mishandles the ball a lot – even when he does run, he doesn’t know where the 1st-down marker is. He’s got no awareness.”
Bokamper’s blunt assessment reflects growing dissatisfaction.
Beyond Bokamper’s viewpoint, Miami Herald writer Omar Kelly has reported that Dolphins owner Stephen Ross no longer views Tagovailoa as the franchise’s future at quarterback. Whether Tagovailoa’s injuries are the main factor behind his decline remains unclear, but the quarterback himself has expressed hope for a fresh start elsewhere, suggesting the relationship with Miami has deteriorated.
Potential Quarterback Alternatives for Miami
The Dolphins are reportedly considering quarterbacks with different skill sets from Tagovailoa’s. Free agent Malik Willis is one option, offering mobility and strong arm talent that contrasts with Tagovailoa’s style. Willis’s running ability is something Tagovailoa never showcased, even before his injuries.
Tagovailoa’s strengths still lie in his rhythm-based throws and accuracy, qualities that remain to be seen in Willis. Financially, moving Tagovailoa will be challenging given his $56 million cap hit, though Miami appears willing to absorb that cost to part ways with the former Pro Bowl quarterback.
The current general manager has not yet confirmed any decisions regarding Tagovailoa’s status, stating plans to engage in discussions with the quarterback before making a move. Nonetheless, the team remains open to adding competition through free agency as they search for answers at the position.
🗣️ Kim Bokamper on Tua Tagovailoa: "I don't want to see him back… he had nothing to give [in 2025] – can't run, mishandles the ball a lot – even when he does run, he doesn't know where the 1st-down marker is. He's got no awareness." (h/t @DolphinsTalk, @1043wqam) #PhinsUp pic.twitter.com/ig4f9w8ABw
— FinsXtra (@FinsXtra) February 12, 2026
