Dolphins Weigh Options on Tua Tagovailoa's Future

Miami GM says immediate release unlikely, but team has several paths forward with quarterback

Feb. 24, 2026 at 4:48pm

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Miami Dolphins general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan discussed the team's options regarding quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, saying an immediate release is "not likely" due to salary cap constraints. Sullivan indicated the Dolphins could keep Tagovailoa on the roster for 2026, make him a post-June 1 cut, or explore trade opportunities before or after June 1.

Why it matters

The Dolphins' decision on Tua Tagovailoa's future will have significant salary cap and roster implications. As the team looks to build around a new quarterback, they must carefully weigh the financial and competitive factors in determining Tagovailoa's status for the 2026 season.

The details

Sullivan said the Dolphins could not feasibly make Tagovailoa an immediate cut, which would have resulted in a $99 million cap hit. Instead, the team is considering keeping him on the roster, making him a post-June 1 cut, or trading him before or after June 1. A trade would be the preferred option, but the $45 million cap commitment for 2026 could make that difficult.

  • The Dolphins start their offseason program on April 6, 2026.
  • The new NFL league year begins on March 11, 2026.
  • A post-June 1 cut for Tagovailoa would not take effect until June 1, 2026.

The players

Jon-Eric Sullivan

The new general manager of the Miami Dolphins.

Tua Tagovailoa

The Miami Dolphins' quarterback, whose future with the team is uncertain.

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What they’re saying

“It was 'not likely' the Dolphins could make the math work under the salary cap to make that move.”

— Jon-Eric Sullivan, Miami Dolphins General Manager (The Miami Herald)

What’s next

The Dolphins will need to make a decision on Tua Tagovailoa's status before the start of the 2026 season. A trade or post-June 1 cut appear to be the most likely scenarios, as an immediate release is not feasible due to salary cap constraints.

The takeaway

The Dolphins are in a delicate position with Tua Tagovailoa, needing to balance the financial implications of their options with the team's long-term quarterback plans. By taking their time and exploring all possibilities, the Dolphins can make the best decision for the organization's future.