The Miami Dolphins' quarterback situation has officially entered the offseason spotlight, with General Manager Eric Sullivan making it clear that no path is off the table—including moving on from Tua Tagovailoa. In a candid press conference, Sullivan confirmed the organization is actively weighing the possibility of trading the 27-year-old signal-caller, setting the stage for a pivotal few weeks in South Beach.
"Everything's on the Table"
When asked directly about Tagovailoa's status, Sullivan didn't mince words. "We've had conversations with Tua and his representation. Everything's on the table, including the potential of a trade," Sullivan told reporters. "We don't know which way that's gonna go. There's a lot of factors in play, a lot of conversations being had." Notably, Sullivan clarified that Tagovailoa himself has not formally requested a move, despite the quarterback previously calling the idea of a fresh start "dope."
A Costly Conundrum
The financial implications of any decision are staggering. Tagovailoa is in the second season of a four-year, $212.4 million extension, a deal that now looks like an anchor. He is set to make $54 million guaranteed in 2026 and carries a monumental $99 million dead cap hit. Trading him represents the cleanest escape route from the final three years of the pact, while a post-June 1st release would allow Miami to spread that record cap penalty over two seasons.
This financial headache is compounded by on-field performance. The 2025 season was a struggle for Tagovailoa, who was benched late in the year after throwing a career-high 15 interceptions and posting a career-low 37.5 QBR. "I think Tua had some bright moments," Sullivan offered diplomatically. "I think Tua, if he was standing here today, would tell you there were some moments he wishes he had back, some decisions he had back."
Exploring the Alternatives
With Tagovailoa's future in doubt, Sullivan admitted the front office is already scouring the market for replacements. The GM confirmed the Dolphins have evaluated free-agent quarterbacks, including Malik Willis. The connection is notable: both Sullivan and Head Coach Jeff Hafley have previous ties to the Green Bay Packers, where Willis served as a backup last season.
The search appears wide open. "We have no idea what that's going to look like in our room," Sullivan said, outlining the variables. "Is it going to be multiple draft picks? Is it going to be a free agent along with Quinn? Who knows? We have so many factors at play. We've got a lot of decisions to make as we move through the next couple of weeks."
Acknowledging Tua's Legacy
Amid the business talk, Sullivan took a moment to reflect on Tagovailoa's tenure. "Tua has accomplished a lot of really good things in his time in Miami," he stated. "I think people that are Miami Dolphins fans should be proud to have had him here, and we'll see where it goes." This nod to the past underscores the complex nature of the decision, balancing sentiment against the harsh realities of NFL production and salary cap management.
The coming weeks will be critical for the Dolphins' direction. A trade would signal a full-scale reset at the sport's most important position, while absorbing Tagovailoa's contract would require a leap of faith in a rebound. For now, the message from the top is unmistakable: Miami's quarterback room is up for grabs, and Tua Tagovailoa's era with the Dolphins is hanging in the balance.
