Dolphins Reportedly Eyeing Quarterback Overhaul Amid Rebuild

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport says Miami may move on from Tua Tagovailoa and give Quinn Ewers a chance to compete for the starting job.

Feb. 19, 2026 at 8:39am

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The Miami Dolphins are undergoing a major rebuild this offseason, including releasing star wide receiver Tyreek Hill and potentially moving on from quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport says the team may look to sign a veteran QB while also giving 2025 rookie Quinn Ewers an opportunity to compete for the starting job, despite Ewers' limited playing time last season.

Why it matters

The Dolphins' quarterback situation has been unsettled for years, and a new direction could be crucial as the team looks to return to the playoffs under new head coach Jeff Hafley. Ewers, a former top recruit, showed promise in limited action as a rookie, and the Dolphins may view him as a potential long-term solution if they move on from Tagovailoa.

The details

According to Rapoport, the Dolphins are likely to sign a veteran quarterback in free agency this offseason, with Malik Willis mentioned as a possible target. The team has also released several high-profile players, including Hill, in an effort to clear cap space and start fresh. Tagovailoa, who has struggled with injuries, has indicated he would be open to a trade, and the Dolphins may decide to move on from the former first-round pick.

  • The Dolphins released several players, including Tyreek Hill, on Monday, February 17, 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL season is set to begin in September 2026.

The players

Jeff Hafley

The new head coach of the Miami Dolphins, hired to lead the team's rebuild.

Quinn Ewers

A quarterback drafted by the Dolphins in 2025 who saw limited playing time as a rookie but may be given a chance to compete for the starting job.

Tua Tagovailoa

The Dolphins' current starting quarterback, who has struggled with injuries and may be traded this offseason.

Malik Willis

A free agent quarterback who the Dolphins may target to add veteran experience to their QB room.

Tyreek Hill

A star wide receiver released by the Dolphins as part of their roster overhaul.

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What they’re saying

“They just need to start new, and my guess is with a new quarterback. The only thing that's weird for me here is that Quinn Ewers may be good. What we saw last year was pretty promising.”

— Ian Rapoport, NFL Network Reporter

What’s next

The Dolphins will likely sign a veteran quarterback and evaluate Ewers' potential during the 2026 offseason program and preseason before deciding on their long-term plan at the position.

The takeaway

The Dolphins are undertaking a significant rebuild, with changes at quarterback and the release of high-profile players like Tyreek Hill. The team is hoping to find a long-term solution at QB, whether that's Tua Tagovailoa, Quinn Ewers, or a free agent addition, as they look to return to the playoffs under new head coach Jeff Hafley.