The Miami Dolphins are expected to have a new quarterback by the 2026 season, with uncertainty around whether Tua Tagovailoa will be traded or released despite his substantial contract. Tagovailoa’s career in Miami has faced challenges since his 2023 Pro Bowl season, including injuries that sidelined him for six games in 2024, notably during the team’s attempt to secure a playoff spot late in the season. His performance declined in 2025, apparently due to the lingering effects of a hip injury.
Wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, Tagovailoa’s longtime on-field partner—from their days together at Alabama to their time with the Dolphins since Waddle’s 2021 first-round draft selection—shared his perspective amid these trade talks. Miami initially drafted Waddle to provide offensive support for Tagovailoa after a 2020 season marked by a lack of explosive receivers. Now, as Tagovailoa’s situation changes, Waddle offered insight into their connection and his readiness to support his teammate.
Speaking to Terron Armstead on The Set, Waddle expressed,
“With everything that’s going on with the situation, if he needs someone to talk to, or advice, or just someone to vent to, he always knows I’m a call away, my line is always open.”
Their partnership spanned from 2021 through 2025, and when asked to form a 7-on-7 squad featuring players from both college and professional levels, Waddle selected Tagovailoa as his starting quarterback over other notable players like Jalen Hurts, Mac Jones, Quinn Ewers, and Teddy Bridgewater.
During their time together, Waddle primarily served as the team’s No. 2 wide receiver behind Tyreek Hill, the Dolphins’ top receiver before being released. When Hill was injured in 2025, Waddle’s role expanded significantly. He averaged 65.3 receiving yards per game with Tagovailoa under center, a pace that would equate to approximately 1,110 yards over a full 17-game season.
Trade Speculation Surrounding Jaylen Waddle and the Dolphins’ Roster Changes
While much attention is on Tagovailoa’s uncertain future, Jaylen Waddle himself has also been linked to trade discussions. During the 2025 season, with the Dolphins holding a 2-7 record at the NFL trade deadline, Waddle emerged as a highly sought-after trade candidate. The Buffalo Bills notably offered a first-round draft pick to acquire the wide receiver from Miami.
Addressing the business of professional football and the frequent roster moves, Waddle remarked,
“People don’t realize how ruthless this business is… you could be here one day, and another place the next day.”
Despite the trade rumors, Waddle signed a three-year extension prior to the 2024 season and is under contract with the Dolphins through 2028. He is also close to reaching the franchise’s top five in career receiving yards, needing fewer than 50 yards to do so.
Implications of the Dolphins’ Potential Quarterback Change
The anticipated departure of Tua Tagovailoa marks a significant turning point for the Miami Dolphins as they look ahead to 2026. Both Tagovailoa and Waddle have been central to the team’s offense, and the evolving roster signals a period of adjustment. Waddle’s willingness to remain supportive amid uncertainty highlights the close bond formed between key players even as the team navigates trades and injuries.
The Dolphins’ strategy moving forward will likely focus on integrating new talent while managing the consequences of injuries and previous contract commitments. How these changes affect their competitiveness in upcoming seasons remains closely watched by fans and analysts alike. For now, Waddle’s role appears secure as he continues to build on his impressive career milestones with Miami.
🎥 Jaylen Waddle on his current relationship with Tua Tagovailoa: "With everything that's going on with the situation, if he needs someone to talk to, or advice, or just someone to vent to, he always knows I'm a call away, my line is always open." (@thesetshow_) #PhinsUp pic.twitter.com/VDzhToeQuz
— FinsXtra (@FinsXtra) February 20, 2026
🎥 Jaylen Waddle on the Dolphins' recent cuts and being named in trade rumors: "People don't realize how ruthless this business is… you could be here one day, and another place the next day." (@thesetshow_) #PhinsUp pic.twitter.com/Yo4MsASooM
— FinsXtra (@FinsXtra) February 20, 2026
