Tua Released, QB Market Shakes
The Dolphins cut Tua Tagovailoa, absorbing $99 million in dead cap 2026 NFL Free Agency Reactions (So Far). He is owed $56 million this year. Potential landing spots include Indianapolis, Atlanta, and the LA Rams.
The Dolphins' massive dead cap hit is the largest in NFL history, dwarfing the previous record held by the Rams when they cut Jared Goff. This move signals a complete reset for Miami at the quarterback position. Indianapolis makes sense for Tagovailoa, given their need for a veteran presence to guide their younger players. Atlanta's interest stems from their desire to compete in a weak NFC South, and Tagovailoa could be a short-term solution. The Rams emerge as a dark horse, potentially seeking a reunion between Tagovailoa and Sean McVay, who reportedly was high on him in the 2020 draft. This move could provide Tagovailoa with a stable environment to revive his career.