Dolphins Cut Tua, $99M Dead Cap
The Miami Dolphins cut Tua Tagovailoa, eating a massive $99 million in dead cap over two seasons — he's still owed $56M for 2026.
The Dolphins will carry a $67.4 million dead cap hit in 2026 and $31.8 million in 2027 by releasing Tagovailoa. Miami was rumored to be considering this move back in February as they considered a clean break from their former franchise quarterback. Miami toyed with the idea of trading Tagovailoa but couldn't find any buyers. GM Jon-Eric Sullivan released a statement, expressing gratitude for Tagovailoa's contributions on and off the field during his six seasons in Miami. The Dolphins have been connected to Malik Willis as a potential free agent quarterback. Other options for Miami at quarterback include Kyler Murray, Mac Jones, and 2025 Heisman Award winner Fernando Mendoza. Tagovailoa's performance dipped after signing a four-year, $212.4 million contract in 2024. He threw 15 interceptions last season and was eventually benched. The Atlanta Falcons are expected to make a strong push for Tagovailoa, and a deal could come together quickly. The Falcons need a veteran quarterback because Michael Penix Jr. is recovering from a torn ACL.
