Last season, Tua Tagovailoa led the NFL in passing yards and powered the Miami Dolphins to the top spot in total offense. Despite this success, a key element of his gameplay was notably absent. With an offseason weight loss, that missing element—his mobility—is expected to make a comeback in 2024.
While Tagovailoa excels at passing, his head coach, Mike McDaniel, believes Tua’s scrambling ability and the knack for gaining yards on the ground should become evident again. This aspect was lacking last season due to a bulking strategy aimed at minimizing injuries, reducing his effectiveness as a runner.
During his rookie year in 2020, Tagovailoa showed promising running ability, particularly memorable during his second NFL start against the Arizona Cardinals. This mobility is starting to resurface in training camps, enhancing his ability to execute designed roll-outs and navigate the pocket under pressure. McDaniel anticipates that this regained mobility will enrich the Dolphins’ offensive strategies and play-calling options.
This increased agility could lead to more first downs, potentially impacting the team’s overall performance. Tua earned 26 first downs in 2020 and 2021, but only nine in the subsequent two years combined. With new strategic assets like Odell Beckham Jr. and Jonnu Smith, the Dolphins have more ways to challenge defenses.
However, incorporating more scrambles comes with concerns about Tua’s exposure to hits, especially given his history of concussions. It’s essential to note that the team plans to use his mobility wisely, avoiding high-risk runs. Tua himself acknowledges the importance of cautious play and decision-making under pressure, which were vital in him completing the previous season safely.
Ultimately, Tagovailoa’s improved mobility not only enhances his personal game, as he expressed post-contract extension but also catalyzes the team’s offensive dynamics without significantly increasing injury risks. The advantages of his agility seem to outweigh concerns, charting a hopeful course for the Dolphins’ offensive strategy in the upcoming season.