Tagovailoa, selected No. 5 overall in 2020, saw a career highlight in 2023 when he led the league with 4,624 passing yards and 29 touchdowns. However, injuries and uneven play in recent seasons have raised questions about his future in Miami, culminating in him being benched late in the 2025 season. Reports indicate the Dolphins are exploring a trade or release, despite his sizable four-year, $212.4 million contract.
Keyshawn Johnson recently presented a case for keeping Tagovailoa in Miami, arguing that the quarterback has shown high-level performance when healthy and could thrive under the right coaching and system. Johnson cited Tagovailoa’s Alabama success and suggested a different coaching approach could unlock his potential.
With Hafley’s defensive-minded, first-time head-coaching background, observers anticipate a potentially challenging fit for Tagovailoa if Miami pushes to move on. The team’s financial commitments make a straightforward trade unlikely, and releasing Tagovailoa would require absorbing significant money over subsequent years, complicating the Dolphins’ decision-making this offseason.
Beyond Miami, several other NFL teams could be intriguing destinations for Tagovailoa if he becomes available, though contract constraints and current market dynamics will heavily influence any potential move. For now, the Dolphins appear focused on evaluating all options as they build toward a new era under Robinson and Hafley.
