Tua Tagovailoa, the Miami Dolphins’ star quarterback, is in the midst of a significant contract standoff with his team, aiming for a lucrative deal that far exceeds the franchise’s initial offer. Drafted in the first round by the Dolphins in 2020, the Alabama alumnus has already made a notable impact.
Having signed a four-year contract worth $30 million at the start of his career, Tagovailoa is now at a pivotal point as the Dolphins exercised a fifth-year option valued at $23.5 million to keep him for another season. Yet, both the franchise and Tagovailoa are eyeing a more extended partnership, albeit at a considerably higher price.
The quarterback market has been escalating, setting the stage for top players to command hefty paydays. An NFL executive, speaking with Dolphin Nation, estimated Tagovailoa’s potential annual salary could hit the $55 million mark, reflecting his growing stature and the difficulty in securing a quarterback of his caliber. “You don’t want to lose him,” the executive remarked, highlighting the delicate balance the Dolphins must achieve in these negotiations.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler revealed on SportsCenter that the Dolphins have indeed initiated contract discussions with Tagovailoa, making at least one offer to the 26-year-old quarterback. However, it appears that what’s on the table thus far hasn’t met Tagovailoa’s expectations. With precedents like Jared Goff’s $50 million-plus a year deal shaping the market, Fowler suggests that Tagovailoa is well-positioned to secure a contract exceeding $50 million annually.
Amid these ongoing discussions, Tagovailoa’s participation in the team’s organized team activities (OTAs) has been noticeably absent, as confirmed by Fowler. This absence is believed to be closely tied to the progress—or lack thereof—in his contract negotiations, raising questions about his immediate future involvement with the team unless an agreement is reached.
Tagovailoa’s connection with wide receiver Tyreek Hill has been a highlight for the Dolphins, creating an imposing duo that opponents have struggled to contain. As negotiations continue, Dolphins fans are eager for a resolution that ensures this dynamic partnership persists, cementing Tagovailoa’s role in leading the team’s offense at Hard Rock Stadium for years to come.