One of the hot topics in the MFL world is the future of Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Ex-NFL star turned analyst Chris Simms recently criticized Dolphins general manager Chris Grier’s unwavering commitment to Tagovailoa. Simms suggested it could come at the expense of the team’s overall success.
“The first year we’re going into we’re not hurting Tua’s feelings and it’s all about that… is Chris Grier going to tie himself to such a point with Tua and prove he is good and he is the guy that he’s going to hurt the rest of the football team to save his own a–,” Simms said.
Grier previously spoke against drafting a quarterback in the first-round of the draft.
“I would say that’s not something we’re looking at. It’s a position we haven’t even talked about, we’re happy with Tua and where he’s at with us”, Grier said via Sporting Zealot.
The debate over Tagovailoa’s future mirrors similar discussions across the league. Some analysts, including Fox Sports analyst Joel Klatt, advocated for exploring alternative quarterback options. The recent trade of Justin Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of investing heavily in a single quarterback without considering other possibilities.
However, the Dolphins seem resolute in their commitment to Tagovailoa. The absence of any indication of wavering on his future suggests that the team is willing to endure the potential risks associated with banking on his success. Now, a contract extension is also on the way for him.
Update on Tua Tagovailoa’s contract extension
The Dolphins have been negotiating a contract extension with Tua Tagovailoa for some time now. However, no further development about the matter has been disclosed by any insider. Recent quarterback contracts have set a high bar, with figures above $40 million per season. His impressive performance last season, including 4,624 passing yards and 29 touchdowns, places him in a strong position to negotiate for a lucrative deal.
Still, concerns linger regarding the quarterback’s injury history, particularly his multiple concussions in 2022. Some also question whether his success is solely a product of the Dolphins’ supportive environment, which boasts several top-tier receivers. The franchise also has potential extensions for players like Jaylen Waddle and Jaelan Phillips. Both of the player’s fifth-year options on their rookie contracts will be exercised.
The decision to sign Tua Tagovailoa to a long-term deal now hinges on evaluating the signal-caller’s progress and potential heading into the 2024 season.