Tua Tagovailoa has spent his entire career with the Miami Dolphins. This will no longer be the case after the veteran quarterback was released during the 2026 NFL offseason. He shared his feelings on the situation shortly after it was announced that he would become an unrestricted free agent this year.
Tua Tagovailoa Addresses His Release From the Miami Dolphins
Tagovailoa has spent six years with the Dolphins after being selected fifth overall in the 2020 NFL Draft. He has had his fair share of successes as their starting quarterback, but making just one playoff appearance likely contributed to their decision to release him.
The veteran responded to the team that believed in him enough to draft him as their franchise quarterback, but eventually determined it would be best to go in a different direction six years later. They recently changed their general manager and head coach this year, which may have played a role in his release.
“To the Miami Dolphins organization, my teammates, the front office and the incredible fans – Thank you for six unforgettable years … Thank you for the battles, the brotherhood, and the standard of excellence we tried achieving every single day we step foot on that field … Thank you for the trust, the guidance, and everything you do that people don’t always see,” said Tagovailoa.
He went on to address the Dolphins fans directly and speak about his ups and downs as their quarterback. He posted a 44-32 record as a starter during the regular season but lost his only career playoff start in the 2023 season.
“To the fans — your energy, loyalty, and passion meant everything. You lifted me up in the biggest moments and stood by me through the challenging ones. From my first start I had, to the first touchdown I threw, I’m grateful for all of it. My family and I felt your love every step of the way. I also carry deep regret that I couldn’t get the job done and bring a championship home to this city,” added Tagovailoa.
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His failure to ultimately live up to his expectations, as well as the new leadership in Miami, apparently was enough for the franchise to take on a record-breaking $99 million in dead cap to not have him on their roster anymore. He spoke about his mindset as he is set to become an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career.
“As I prepare for the next chapter, I move forward with gratitude, faith, and memories I’ll cherish for a lifetime. South Florida will always hold a special place in my heart,” stated Tagovailoa.
Tagovailoa is coming off a down year in 2025, finishing just 27th among all quarterbacks in PFSN’s Impact Rankings. He had ranked eighth or better in each of his previous three seasons, so he will be looking to get back on track with a new team this year. A team can theoretically sign him at a major discount, with the Dolphins on the hook for his $54 million in guaranteed salary for the 2026 season.
