Tua Tagovailoa Likely to Be Released or Traded by Dolphins

The former Pro Bowl QB could be an affordable option for QB-needy teams like the Vikings

Feb. 11, 2026 at 7:15am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Miami Dolphins are expected to move on from quarterback Tua Tagovailoa before the start of the 2026 NFL season, either by releasing him or trading him. Tagovailoa, a first-round pick in 2020, has had an up-and-down career with the Dolphins, making the Pro Bowl in 2023 but struggling with injuries and inconsistency. The Vikings, who need to add depth at quarterback behind J.J. McCarthy, could be one of the teams interested in acquiring Tagovailoa, though his history with former Dolphins coach Brian Flores may complicate that possibility.

Why it matters

Tagovailoa's potential availability on the open market or via trade could provide an affordable option for quarterback-needy teams like the Vikings, who are looking to add depth and competition behind their current starter. However, Tagovailoa's injury history and his past issues with former coach Brian Flores could make him a risky proposition for some teams.

The details

According to reports, the Dolphins are expected to move on from Tagovailoa before the start of the 2026 league year, either by releasing him or trading him. If released, Tagovailoa would likely have a robust free agent market, as teams could sign him to a relatively cheap 'prove-it' deal. If traded, the Dolphins would likely have to eat a significant portion of his $54 million guaranteed salary for 2026 in order to facilitate a deal. Tagovailoa has started 76 games for the Dolphins since being drafted in 2020, with his best season coming in 2023 when he made the Pro Bowl. However, he has also battled concussion issues and inconsistency throughout his career.

  • The Dolphins are expected to make a decision on Tagovailoa's future prior to the start of the new league year on March 11, 2026.

The players

Tua Tagovailoa

A 27-year-old quarterback who has spent the first five seasons of his NFL career with the Miami Dolphins. He was a first-round pick in 2020 and made the Pro Bowl in 2023, but has struggled with injuries and inconsistency.

Brian Flores

The current defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings, who previously served as the head coach of the Miami Dolphins during Tagovailoa's first two seasons in the league. Tagovailoa and Flores reportedly had a contentious relationship.

J.J. McCarthy

The starting quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, who the team will look to add depth behind in the 2026 offseason.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Tua Tagovailoa's tenure in Miami is circling the drain. All signs are pointing toward the Dolphins' new regime moving on from the 27-year-old quarterback in 2026.”

— Michael Baca

“Depending on how much of Tagovailoa's contract the Dolphins are prepared to cover, he'd be a great option for a contending team in need of a proven backup.”

— Joseph Zucker

What’s next

The Vikings will likely evaluate Tagovailoa's trade price and fit with the team, but his history with former coach Brian Flores could complicate their interest.

The takeaway

Tagovailoa's potential availability on the open market or via trade could provide an affordable option for quarterback-needy teams, but his injury history and past issues with coaches make him a risky proposition for some franchises.