Dolphins Release QB Tua Tagovailoa, Sign Malik Willis

Tagovailoa's release results in a $99 million dead cap hit for Miami

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Miami Dolphins are parting ways with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who has been their primary starter for the past 5 1/2 seasons. The team announced on Monday that they will be releasing Tagovailoa, resulting in a $99 million dead cap hit. The Dolphins are moving forward with Malik Willis as their new starting quarterback.

Why it matters

This marks a significant shift in the Dolphins' quarterback plans after investing heavily in Tagovailoa. The large dead cap hit underscores the financial implications of the team's decision to move on from the former first-round pick. The move also signals a fresh start at the position as the Dolphins look to build around Willis.

The details

Tagovailoa was the Dolphins' first-round draft pick in 2020 and has started 69 games for the team over the past 5 1/2 seasons. However, the team has decided to part ways with the 25-year-old quarterback, resulting in a massive $99 million dead cap hit. The Dolphins will now turn to Malik Willis, who they have signed to be their new starting QB.

  • Tua Tagovailoa has been the Dolphins' primary starter for the last 5 1/2 seasons.
  • The Dolphins announced Tagovailoa's release on Monday, March 10, 2026.

The players

Tua Tagovailoa

A 25-year-old quarterback who has been the Miami Dolphins' primary starter for the past 5 1/2 seasons.

Malik Willis

The quarterback signed by the Miami Dolphins to be their new starting QB after the release of Tua Tagovailoa.

Miami Dolphins

The NFL team based in Miami, Florida that is moving on from quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and signing Malik Willis.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The Dolphins' decision to release Tua Tagovailoa and sign Malik Willis represents a major shift in the team's quarterback plans. The large $99 million dead cap hit underscores the financial implications of this move, as the Dolphins look to build a new future at the position.