Miami Dolphins are likely to release Tua Tagovailoa

As the Miami Dolphins enter one of their most pivotal offseasons in years, the future of Tua Tagovailoa sits firmly at the center of the conversation. Contrary to some speculation across social media, a release is not a realistic scenario the contract structure makes that financially unviable.

But the Dolphins do face a major decision:

Extend Tua long-term?

Use the franchise tag?

Or explore trade options if negotiations stall?

This is where the offseason becomes truly interesting.

Tua is playing under his fifth-year option, and releasing him would leave Miami with a large guaranteed cap charge and no competitive benefit. Instead, the Dolphins are navigating three real paths:

1. Long-term extension- Tua wants one, but Miami's new head coach Jeff Hafley has said everyrthing is on the table.

2. Franchise tag- Gives the team control for 2026 while delaying long-term commitment.

3. Trade scenario- The Dolphins have been linked with other QB's so it can be a possibility.

These are the only accurate, realistic options based on NFL cap rules.

Even with the contract realities, performance still matters. Tua led one of the NFL's top offenses under Mike McDaniel, but questions remain:

1. Big-game inconsistency- Miami has struggled against top-tier, playoff-bound teams as well as no playoff wins under Tua.

2. Offensive production- The offensive productions dips late in the season which is a pattern that happens each season.

This doesn't diminish Tua's strengths- accuracy, anticipation, and leadership but with Tyreek Hill his top WR target now gone and his health always being a constant factor this can reflect a decision.

But the Dolphins ambitions go beyond putting up numbers. They're trying to build a roster capable of competing with the AFC's elite.

Miami is at a crossroads. A long-term QB contract changes everything for a franchise in terms of salary cap distribution, roster construction, and timeline to contend. If the Dolphins cut Tua they will have to eat at least north of $50 million per year and if they trade him then that team will have to pick up that contract.

From what we've seen and heard from the new head coach is that everything is on the table including Tua. The Dolphins have looked like they're posturing to cut Tua if they don't get any significant trade offers for him.

The situation around Tua Tagovailoa is still high-stakes and very real. The Dolphins want to win now. Tua believes he deserves to be paid like a long-term franchise quaterback. Those two truths can coexist but they create a lot of pressure. And that pressure makes this Miami offseason one of the most important in years.

Written by: Daniel Torres

Miami Dolphins are likely to release Tua Tagovailoa