Dolphins Bench Tua Tagovailoa, Turning to Rookie Quinn Ewers
The Miami Dolphins have decided to bench quarterback Tua Tagovailoa for their remaining games this season, opting to give rookie Quinn Ewers a chance to start. This decision comes as the Dolphins have been mathematically eliminated from playoff contention, prompting the team to evaluate their future options at quarterback. Tagovailoa, who signed a hefty $212.1 million contract in 2024, may have potentially played his final game for the franchise.
The decision to bench Tagovailoa reflects a troubling trend; he has ranked among the least effective quarterbacks in the league over the past month and a half, despite the Dolphins winning five of their last seven games. His performance has fallen short, ranking 30th in Quarterback Rating (QBR) and 24th in passing yards since Week 10. Coach Mike McDaniel noted Tagovailoa’s struggles during a recent game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he completed only 6 of 10 passes for 65 yards and threw an interception.
“I think the Steelers had a good plan,” McDaniel commented. “Tua lost sight of the cornerback and threw it to him out of the break. It’s not the ideal play, and matters were made worse by the throw to the opponent.” Tagovailoa leads the NFL with a career-high 15 interceptions this season, a statistic that has undoubtedly influenced the Dolphins’ decision to move forward with Ewers.
Tagovailoa’s benching raises questions about his future with the Dolphins. As it stands, he may be viewed as a bridge quarterback for the upcoming season or could find himself exploring options as a free agent. His $54 million in guaranteed compensation for 2026 poses challenges for potential trade scenarios. Teams have expressed skepticism regarding his marketability, given both his on-field performance and ongoing concussion concerns.
Should Ewers excel over the next few games, he could solidify his position as a viable starting option for Miami. His rookie contract allows the Dolphins to assess him without the financial burden associated with a veteran quarterback. If he performs well, it could become a win-win situation for the franchise, as they might uncover a future starter while bolstering their draft position if they lose.
The financial implications of moving on from Tagovailoa are substantial. His $54 million in guaranteed money would create significant dead salary cap charges if he is released or traded. If Miami retains him beyond March 13, 2026, they face absorbing $57 million in guaranteed costs. Given the complexities involved, the Dolphins face a precarious situation in terms of their salary cap and quarterback options.
As for McDaniel, the head coach has been tasked with maximizing Tagovailoa’s potential, leading to marked improvements last season. However, the current situation suggests he may need to develop a new franchise quarterback, potentially beginning with Ewers. While McDaniel did not draft Tagovailoa, he advocated for his contract extension. His ability to cultivate talent will be tested as he works with Ewers over the remaining weeks of the season.
Ewers, who had a strong college career with the Texas Longhorns, is entering the spotlight at a critical juncture. He threw 68 touchdown passes and 24 interceptions during his tenure, showcasing accuracy when operating from a clean pocket. The Dolphins hope to leverage his strengths in their offensive scheme, which focuses on quick passes and creating space for receivers.
The reaction within the Dolphins’ locker room is also a key factor. Players often sense when a change is needed, and Ewers’ potential to reinvigorate the passing game could be crucial. Tagovailoa, a team captain, has faced criticism for his leadership and performance this season, raising concerns about team morale. His actions following the loss to the Steelers, where he was seen laughing with cornerback Jalen Ramsey, might have further impacted locker room dynamics.
In summary, the Dolphins’ decision to bench Tagovailoa marks a significant turning point for the franchise. With the introduction of Ewers as a starter, Miami aims to evaluate new talent while navigating the complexities of Tagovailoa’s contract and future. The coming weeks will be pivotal for both the rookie quarterback and the team’s long-term strategy.
