Falcons Sign QB Tua Tagovailoa to 1-Year Deal After Dolphins Release

The former Dolphins QB will look to revive his career in Atlanta after being released by Miami.

Mar. 10, 2026 at 7:55pm

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The Atlanta Falcons have signed quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to a one-year deal after the Miami Dolphins released the former fifth overall pick. Tagovailoa spent six seasons in Miami, making the Pro Bowl in 2023, but struggled with injuries and inconsistent play in recent years. The Dolphins' decision to release Tagovailoa will result in a record-setting $99.2 million dead-cap hit for the team.

Why it matters

This move represents a fresh start for Tagovailoa, who was once seen as a potential franchise quarterback but never fully lived up to his draft position in Miami. The Falcons are hoping he can regain his form and provide stability at the QB position after a turbulent 2025 season. For the Dolphins, this move signals a broader roster reset as they look to build around newer pieces.

The details

The Falcons will sign Tagovailoa to a one-year deal, giving him an opportunity to prove himself and potentially earn a longer-term contract. The Dolphins' decision to release Tagovailoa comes just a year after he signed a four-year, $212.4 million extension, making it the largest dead-cap charge in NFL history at $99.2 million. Miami will spread that hit over two seasons, with $67.4 million in 2026 and $31.8 million in 2027.

  • On Monday, the Miami Dolphins announced they were parting ways with Tua Tagovailoa.
  • The Falcons are expected to sign Tagovailoa to a one-year deal when the new league year begins on Wednesday.

The players

Tua Tagovailoa

A former fifth overall draft pick who spent six seasons with the Miami Dolphins, making the Pro Bowl in 2023 but struggling with injuries and inconsistent play in recent years.

Jon-Eric Sullivan

The Miami Dolphins' general manager, who informed Tagovailoa that the team plans to part ways with him.

Kevin Stefanski

The new head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, who is looking to provide stability at the quarterback position.

Ian Cunningham

The new general manager of the Atlanta Falcons, who is working to rebuild the team's roster.

Matt Ryan

The Atlanta Falcons' franchise legend who has been appointed as the team's president of football operations.

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What they’re saying

“As I shared with Tua, I have great respect for the person and player he is. On behalf of the Miami Dolphins, I expressed our gratitude for his many contributions, both on the field and in the community, during his six seasons.”

— Jon-Eric Sullivan, Miami Dolphins General Manager

“The Falcons are making a strong push to sign former Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa and a deal could come together soon, sources tell The Insiders. No deal can be finalized until Tua is officially released Wednesday. But signs point to Atlanta.”

— Tom Pelissero, NFL Network Reporter

“Wearing this jersey and representing this city has been one of the greatest joys of my life. As I prepare for the next chapter, I move forward with gratitude, faith, and memories I'll cherish for a lifetime.”

— Tua Tagovailoa

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This move represents a fresh start for Tua Tagovailoa, who will look to revive his career in Atlanta after struggling with injuries and inconsistent play in Miami. For the Falcons, it's an opportunity to provide stability at the quarterback position and build around a talented young player.