Dolphins cut Tua Tagovailoa for record $99 million cap hit after brutal season
New York Post5 hrs
Dolphins Release Tua Tagovailoa
Are the Dolphins making a smart decision in pursuit of a new agenda or did they give away a star quarterback for pennies on the dollar?
Above: Tua Tagovailoa during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals in Miami Gardens, Fla., on Dec. 21, 2025. Image credit: Megan Briggs/Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
While releasing Tagovailoa could certainly be seen as a catastrophic front office failure, the move seems to be worth it to a team that watched their star quarterback turn into an injury-prone liability. After releasing fellow veteran superstar Tyreek Hill last month, the Dolphins are clearly seeking a new direction that can only be achieved with massive cuts.
Narrative B
Tagovailoa remains a productive starter at 28 with elite efficiency metrics, who led the league in completion percentage and passer rating when healthy. Multiple teams have already done background work because his timing-based accuracy fits modern offensive systems, and any team can sign him for a minimum salary since Miami covers his guaranteed money.