where is tua going
Tua Tagovailoa's Next Move: Dolphins Drama Unfolds Tua Tagovailoa, the Miami Dolphins quarterback, faces a pivotal offseason after being benched late in the 2025 season for rookie Quinn Ewers. As of March 9, 2026, reports confirm the Dolphins are releasing him, ending his six-year tenure amid contract complications and performance struggles.
Latest Developments
Miami's new GM Jon-Eric Sullivan stated at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine that "everything is on the table, including a trade," but the massive $99.2 million dead cap hit from his 2024 extension makes release likely. Tua threw 20 touchdowns but a career-high 15 interceptions in 2025, leading to his demotion. Free agency opens March 11, so expect rapid movement.
"We're assessing the entire roster. As for Tua, we've had discussions... everything is an option." – Dolphins GM Jon-Eric Sullivan
Top Landing Spots
Speculation points to NFC teams seeking quarterback stability. Here's a breakdown of rumored destinations based on recent insider buzz:
Team| Why It Fits| Key Challenges| Source
---|---|---|---
Green Bay Packers| Backup to Jordan Love; strong system and talent.
ESPN's Adam Schefter calls it "attractive" for a reset.1| Trade value low due
to contract; Packers may prefer Malik Willis.1|
Atlanta Falcons| Revamp post-Kirk Cousins; stars like Bijan Robinson,
Drake London, Kyle Pitts. Indoor games could suit Tua's quick-release
style.35| Cold-weather road games (Green Bay, Cleveland); Michael Penix Jr.'s
injury recovery.35|
Minnesota Vikings| Rocky year with J.J. McCarthy; mutual interest in
upgrades.3| Tua's past head injuries and "panic mode" under pressure.5|
These spots leverage Tua's prior successes—like leading the NFL in passing yards (2023) and efficiency (2022)—while addressing his 2025 ball-security issues.
Contract Realities
Tua's deal carries a $54-56.2 million 2026 cap hit, with $54 million guaranteed. A trade might require sweeteners (like extra picks), or he could sign a cheap deal elsewhere, sticking Miami with most of the bill. Release avoids a holdout but hammers the cap—NFL teams are weighing the low-risk, high-reward gamble.
Tua's Perspective & Forum Buzz
Tua expressed openness to a "fresh start" in January exit interviews. Fan forums and social chatter (e.g., DolphinsZone on Facebook) debate staying vs. going, with some clinging to his peak years despite injury history. Trending discussions highlight his Alabama roots and potential for a Sam Darnold-like revival elsewhere.
What Happens Next?
No deal is finalized—watch for trades before free agency or a surprise restructure. Packers and Falcons lead rumors, but cold-weather risks linger for the Hawaii native. Tua could thrive with better protection, but his second act hinges on a coach who schemes to his strengths.
TL;DR: Dolphins releasing Tua; Packers, Falcons, Vikings top spots amid contract mess. Free agency starts soon—stay tuned.
Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.