The Miami Dolphins just made one of the most shocking decisions of the NFL offseason — releasing longtime starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa in a move that will cost the franchise an NFL-record $99.2 million in dead salary-cap space.
Yes, you read that correctly. The Dolphins are paying nearly $100 million for a quarterback who will no longer play for them.
A Massive Financial Gamble
According to reports, the Dolphins will designate Tagovailoa’s release as post-June 1, allowing the team to spread the historic cap hit across two seasons instead of absorbing it all at once.
Even with that designation, the move still shatters the previous NFL record for dead cap money — surpassing the $85 million the Denver Broncos absorbed when they released Russell Wilson in 2024.
The Dolphins will still owe Tagovailoa $54 million in guaranteed money from his contract, even though he will be playing somewhere else next season.
The End of an Era in Miami
Tagovailoa’s release ends a six-year run with the Dolphins that began when the team selected him fifth overall in the 2020 NFL Draft.
During his time in Miami, he produced impressive numbers at times. He finished his Dolphins career with 18,166 passing yards, 120 touchdowns, and 59 interceptions, while posting a 44–32 record as a starter.
There were even moments when Tagovailoa looked like a true franchise quarterback. In 2023, he led the entire NFL in passing yards, becoming the first Miami quarterback to do so since the legendary Dan Marino in 1992.
But injuries, inconsistency, and a disappointing 2025 season ultimately pushed the organization toward a reset.
What Went Wrong
The Dolphins struggled to a 7–10 record last season, and Tagovailoa’s play declined late in the year as the team searched for answers at quarterback.
Miami eventually benched him in favor of rookie Quinn Ewers, a move that hinted major changes were coming for the franchise.
With a new coaching staff and front office trying to reshape the roster, the organization decided it was time to move in a completely different direction.
What Happens Next
Tagovailoa immediately becomes one of the most intriguing free agents on the quarterback market.
Early reports indicate the Atlanta Falcons could pursue him as they search for a veteran quarterback option.
Meanwhile, Miami appears ready to start a new chapter at the position after signing former Green Bay Packers quarterback Malik Willis earlier in free agency.
One of the Wildest Moves of the NFL Offseason
Cutting a franchise quarterback is always dramatic.
Doing it while swallowing the largest dead cap hit in NFL history makes it even more unbelievable.
The Dolphins just made one thing clear: they are willing to take a massive financial hit if it means completely resetting their future at quarterback.
Whether that gamble works — or becomes one of the most expensive mistakes in NFL history — is a story the league will be watching closely.
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