UPDATE: In a shocking move, the Miami Dolphins have just announced that quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has been benched in favor of rookie Quinn Ewers for their upcoming game against the Cincinnati Bengals. This decision comes after Tagovailoa’s inconsistent performance this season, raising questions about his future with the team.
Tagovailoa, who signed a remarkable $212.4 million contract extension last year, will now serve as the emergency third quarterback. This marks a significant shift for the former Alabama All-American, who started every game this season until now. Ewers, a seventh-round pick, steps into the spotlight after Tagovailoa struggled with a completion rate of 67.7 percent and a league-high 15 interceptions.
When asked about his benching, Tagovailoa expressed disappointment but acknowledged the need for personal reflection. “I haven’t been performing up to the level and the capabilities that I have in the past,” he stated. His current statistics show 20 touchdowns against 15 interceptions, with a passing-efficiency rating of 88.5.
This season has been turbulent for Tagovailoa, especially after he missed six games last year due to injuries, including a concussion. Despite leading the NFL in passing yards in 2023 with 4,624 yards, this year has seen a notable decline, with his average passing yards per game dropping significantly.
The emotional impact of this decision is palpable, with Tagovailoa admitting that he feels a “normal human emotion” about being benched. “I’ve got to do my part… to help whoever the quarterback is going to be for this team,” he added, emphasizing his commitment to the team and his teammates.
Looking forward, the Dolphins face a critical juncture. If Tagovailoa remains with the team next season, he will cost Miami $57 million, with substantial salary cap implications. The team could face a $99.2 million hit against their 2026 cap if they release him before a key deadline.
As the Dolphins prepare for their game against the Bengals this Sunday, all eyes will be on Ewers and whether he can ignite a struggling offense. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this dramatic shift impacts the team’s playoff aspirations.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops and keep an eye on how Tagovailoa’s situation unfolds in the coming weeks. The Dolphins are at a critical turning point, and the stakes have never been higher.
