Dolphins Weigh Options as Tua Tagovailoa's Future Uncertain

New coach Jeff Hafley eyes Packers backup Malik Willis, but cap space may be an issue.

Feb. 22, 2026 at 7:41pm

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The Miami Dolphins are expected to part ways with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa this offseason, either through a trade or outright release. The team's new head coach, Jeff Hafley, is reportedly interested in signing Packers backup Malik Willis, but Miami's lack of salary cap space could make that difficult. If the Dolphins miss out on Willis, they may turn to former Ohio State standout Quinn Ewers as their quarterback of the future.

Why it matters

Tagovailoa's departure would mark the end of an era for the Dolphins, who selected him with the 5th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. The team's decision on his future will have major implications for their quarterback position going forward, as they look to build a contender under new leadership.

The details

According to reports, a member of Tagovailoa's team has indicated the 27-year-old will not be with the Dolphins when the 2026 season begins. The team is said to prefer trading Tagovailoa, but may end up cutting him due to financial constraints. Hafley is reportedly interested in signing Packers backup Malik Willis, but Miami's lack of cap space could make that difficult. If they miss out on Willis, the Dolphins may turn to former Ohio State standout Quinn Ewers as their quarterback of the future.

  • The Dolphins' plans for Tagovailoa could be announced before the end of the NFL Scouting Combine, which begins on Monday, February 27, 2026.
  • Tagovailoa is not expected to be with the Dolphins when the 2026 NFL season begins.

The players

Tua Tagovailoa

A former 1st round draft pick of the Dolphins in 2020, Tagovailoa is expected to be traded or released by the team this offseason.

Jeff Hafley

The Dolphins' new head coach, who is reportedly interested in signing Packers backup quarterback Malik Willis.

Malik Willis

The Packers' backup quarterback, who is a potential free agent target for the Dolphins this offseason.

Quinn Ewers

A former standout quarterback at Ohio State, who could be an option for the Dolphins if they miss out on signing Malik Willis.

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What they’re saying

“The Miami Dolphins' immediate plans for the future of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa could be publicly announced before the end of the Combine.”

— Tony Pauline, NFL Insider

“No one expects Tagovailoa to be back with the franchise. A member of the quarterback's team even told me that the 2020 first-round pick won't be with the Dolphins come Week 1 of the 2026 season.”

— Tony Pauline, NFL Insider

“People I've spoken with believe Willis ends up with the Arizona Cardinals, as they are expected to cut ties with Kyler Murray.”

— Tony Pauline, NFL Insider

What’s next

The Dolphins will need to decide whether to trade or release Tua Tagovailoa in the coming weeks, and their plans for the quarterback position going forward will become clearer as the offseason progresses.

The takeaway

The Dolphins' decision on Tua Tagovailoa's future will have major implications for the team's quarterback position and their plans for the 2026 season and beyond. With new leadership in place, the team is exploring options to upgrade the position, but their limited salary cap space could make that a challenge.