As the Miami Dolphins and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa engage in ongoing contract negotiations, the quarterback’s temperament regarding the drawn-out discussions is difficult to pinpoint. “Happy” certainly doesn’t capture his current mood.
Tagovailoa expressed his state of mind to journalists on Tuesday, stating, “I’m not frustrated. I’m… another word.” Reporters pitched in, offering various descriptors to help him articulate his feelings.
When asked if he was concerned, Tagovailoa quickly dismissed that notion, stating, “Not concerned. Concerned is not the right word.
That’s way off.” The term “antsy” seemed to resonate more with him, although he clarified he wasn’t “pissed off,” acknowledging the contractual stalemate as part of the professional landscape.
Attempts to label his feelings as agitated, annoyed, or bothered were met with laughter from Tagovailoa, who simply stated, “I just want to get something done.”
Tagovailoa’s ongoing negotiations were made public via a tweet by Omar Kelly on June 4, 2024, highlighting the quarterback’s complex sentiments toward the situation.
Currently, Tagovailoa is poised to enter the 2024 season under the fifth-year option of his initial NFL contract. Despite this, both he and the Dolphins have been actively seeking to finalize an extension during the offseason. Tagovailoa had previously expressed optimism about reaching an agreement, especially during events like the Pro Bowl Games more than four months ago and reiterating in April that “exciting times” lay ahead.
However, with training camp looming and no deal in sight, the urgency to conclude these negotiations is palpable. Tagovailoa noted the progress made from the outset but also acknowledged the inherent challenges in reaching a satisfactory compromise for both parties. He remains hopeful for a resolution, conceding that the outcome is ultimately out of his hands.
Should the parties come to terms, the extension is likely to make Tagovailoa the highest-paid player in Dolphins’ history, with expectations of the contract surpassing $50 million annually.