The Miami Dolphins entered the 2025 season with playoff aspirations, but after one disastrous week, the entire organization is facing a crisis of confidence. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s shaky performance, marked by two interceptions and a lost fumble, has immediately raised questions about his future as the starter.
With head coach Mike McDaniel and general manager Chris Grier under pressure, a poor showing against the Indianapolis Colts has put everything on the table, forcing the front office to consider a drastic move to save their season and their jobs.
Which Quarterbacks Could the Dolphins Target in a Trade?
The Dolphins were one of the worst teams in the NFL in Week 1, and things will have to drastically improve. The offense put up only 146 passing yards and 78 rushing yards, while the defense allowed the Colts to be the first team to score on every possession since 1977.
Tagovailoa was a significant part of the problem, and if his struggles continue, Miami may have no choice but to look for a replacement. A recent article by Fansided suggested three quarterbacks that could be available via trade, and the Dolphins should consider these options.
Tua Tagovailoa just threw the WORST interception of all time….
pic.twitter.com/roijeEg9qr
— Mikerophone (@MikerophoneNFL) September 7, 2025
The first quarterback the article suggested was Anthony Richardson, who is currently the Colts’ backup. He watched from the sidelines in Week 1 as Daniel Jones torched the Miami defense. With how impressive Jones looked, Indianapolis might be more willing to part with its former first-round pick.
McDaniel, an offensive-minded coach, could be tempted by Richardson’s physical upside, which offers a stark contrast to Tagovailoa’s limitations. Among the potential trade options, Richardson would have the highest upside.
The author also suggested Atlanta Falcons veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, who currently sits behind Michael Penix Jr. in the Falcons’ pecking order. Although Cousins is 37 years old, he comes with a wealth of experience, having played in 165 NFL games.
RELATED: Ex-Dolphins DB Throws Shade on Tua Tagovailoa After Miami’s QB Struggles Massively in Week 1
He is also two years removed from an Achilles injury he suffered in the 2023-24 season, so he should be healthier than last season. While his $27.5 million salary and $40 million cap hit make him an expensive option, Atlanta could absorb part of the cost in a trade.
The final quarterback suggestion is Jameis Winston. Though now third on the New York Giants’ depth chart behind Russell Wilson and rookie Jaxson Dart, Winston still possesses a live arm. His aggressive, boom-or-bust style could inject some much-needed volatility into Miami’s stagnant offense.
Can Tagovailoa Save His Job Against the Patriots?
This week, the Dolphins face their AFC East rivals, the New England Patriots, in what has quickly become a must-win game. Both teams are winless after Week 1, and following such a disappointing season debut, a loss to the Patriots will be unacceptable to the Dolphins’ fanbase.
Tagovailoa will have to play much better than he did in Week 1. If he doesn’t, Miami will be forced to seriously consider Richardson, Cousins, Winston, or even another quarterback as potential replacements.
