It has been a whirlwind offseason for the Miami Dolphins, who are in the middle of a complete roster overhaul after a disappointing campaign. The club has already made several significant moves, including releasing superstar wide receiver Tyreek Hill and firing head coach Mike McDaniel.
Now, the team is set to release quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, opening the door for a veteran to potentially come in and secure the starting gig for the upcoming season.
NFL Insider Reveals Geno Smith’s Preferred Landing Spot Amid Dolphins QB Questions
It will be interesting to see how the Dolphins build their roster next season, given that releasing Tagovailoa comes with a record $99.2 million in dead money against the salary cap.
That said, the team could look for a cheaper, veteran option. Enter Geno Smith, who will be looking to bounce back after a disastrous 2025 campaign.
According to NFL insider Connor Hughes, the 35-year-old’s preferred destination is Miami, his hometown. There are several quarterback options available in free agency, and Hughes stated that the Dolphins are pursuing former Green Bay Packers prospect Malik Willis.
One thing to watch on the #Jets Geno Smith pursuit: Malik Willis.
The #Dolphins want Willis. If the #Cardinals can steal him, MIA has Geno Smith among their list of contingency plans.
Sources indicate Smith’s preferred destination is Miami, where he’s from. Could muddy…
— Connor Hughes (@Connor_J_Hughes) March 9, 2026
That said, Smith might be the more affordable option and a short-term play for the rebuilding franchise.
Smith, who is reportedly a target for the New York Jets, is coming off a brutal season with the Las Vegas Raiders, which saw him throw an NFL-leading 17 interceptions to only 19 touchdown passes.
While the poor season might not be 100% Smith’s fault, given the fact that he was also sacked more than any other QB in 2025 (55 sacks taken), he will likely need to sign a shorter, “prove it” deal wherever he winds up.
While the Dolphins may wind up looking for a younger option in free agency, Smith should still have plenty of suitors, as several teams, including the New York Jets, Atlanta Falcons, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Arizona Cardinals, still have questions surrounding their futures at the quarterback position.
Signing with the Jets, however, would be a full-circle moment for Smith, who was drafted by the club back in 2013.
