Miami Dolphins release QB Tua Tagovailoa, incurring record cap hit

The Miami Dolphins have released quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, a move that results in an unprecedented $99.2 million in dead cap space. This decision marks a significant shift in the franchise's direction, as they part ways with the player they selected fifth overall in the 2020 NFL Draft. Tagovailoa's tenure with the Dolphins was marked by both promise and challenges. After leading the league in passer rating in 2022 and passing yards in 2023, he earned Pro Bowl honors and guided the team to consecutive playoff appearances. However, the 2025 season saw a decline in performance, with Tagovailoa throwing a career-high 15 interceptions and being benched in favor of rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers late in the season. The financial implications of releasing Tagovailoa are substantial. The $99.2 million dead cap hit is the largest in NFL history, underscoring the magnitude of the Dolphins' commitment to a new direction. This move suggests a willingness to absorb significant short-term financial pain in pursuit of long-term success. In the wake of his release, Tagovailoa quickly found a new home, signing a one-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons on March 13, 2026. This transition offers him an opportunity to revitalize his career and provides the Falcons with an experienced quarterback option. For the Dolphins, the decision to release Tagovailoa signals a commitment to rebuilding under the leadership of General Manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and Head Coach Jeff Hafley. The team is expected to explore options in the upcoming NFL Draft and free agency to address the quarterback position, with Quinn Ewers and potential veteran acquisitions being considered. As the Dolphins embark on this new chapter, the release of Tagovailoa will be remembered as a bold and costly decision, reflecting the franchise's determination to reshape its future.