Miami’s New GM Weighs All Options for Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s Future

Miami Dolphins General Manager Jon-Eric Sullivan indicated Tuesday that all possibilities remain open regarding quarterback Tua Tagovailoa's status with the team. While trade discussions are possible, Sullivan noted positive conversations with Tagovailoa's representatives, who have expressed the quarterback's desire to continue playing at a high level.

Miami Dolphins General Manager Jon-Eric Sullivan indicated Tuesday that all possibilities remain open regarding the franchise’s approach to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa heading into the offseason.

Speaking with media at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, Sullivan emphasized that discussions with Tagovailoa and his agents have been constructive, even though the quarterback spent the final portion of last season as a backup under previous head coach Mike McDaniel.

“Everything’s on the table right now. It could go in a lot of different ways,” Sullivan stated. “A trade is a possibility, but Tua is aware, his representation is aware. We’ve had really positive conversations, and, like I said, it’s kind of all on the table when it comes to Tua at this moment.”

Sullivan added that Tagovailoa’s representatives have communicated their client’s commitment to continuing his playing career. “(Tagovailoa’s reps) have expressed that he wants to play and that they still think he can play at a high level. The conversations have been productive, but they have not in particular said that they want to be traded.”

The quarterback, who Miami selected fifth overall in the 2020 NFL Draft, lost his starting position during the final three contests of the 2025 campaign to rookie seventh-round pick Quinn Ewers. Tagovailoa struggled with turnovers, throwing 15 interceptions against 20 touchdown passes across 14 appearances.

Throughout his six-year tenure in Miami, Tagovailoa has maintained a 68% completion rate while accumulating 18,166 passing yards, 120 touchdowns, and 59 interceptions.

The quarterback, who will celebrate his 28th birthday on March 2, is currently at the midpoint of a four-year, $212.4 million contract extension signed before the 2024 season. His guaranteed compensation for the 2026 season totals $54 million.

Should Miami choose to release Tagovailoa prior to June 1, the organization would face an unprecedented $99.2 million dead money penalty against their salary cap.

The Dolphins are navigating significant organizational changes with Sullivan and newly appointed head coach Jeff Hafley, both former Green Bay personnel, now leading the franchise.

Miami has already made roster moves aimed at cost reduction, releasing injured veteran receiver Tyreek Hill and veteran pass rusher Bradley Chubb. Sullivan described these decisions as efforts to make the team “younger and cheaper.”