While quarterbacks like Jared Goff and Trevor Lawrence have secured new deals, the Miami Dolphins and Tua Tagovailoa have failed to agree on a contract extension this offseason.
In his appearance on NFL Live, reporter Jeff Darlington revealed that a large reason for that is because Miami’s front office has failed to offer up market value for the 26-year-old passer, and his confidence in an extension being worked out is waning.
After another strong campaign in 2023 where Tagovailoa threw for career highs in yards (4,624) and touchdowns (29), the passer has established himself as one of the top names at his position.
Now he looks to be rewarded for his pay with a contract similar to the extensions of other names who were on the market. But if a deal isn’t worked out before the season, one has to question if it ever will be.
The Dolphins are working on a tight budget with stars like Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Bradley Chubb, and Jalen Ramsey all carrying big price tags into future seasons. So, if they work out a deal with their quarterback, they may not have much room left to operate with.
While quarterback is the most important position on a team, some feel that Mike McDaniel and the supporting cast play a large role in Tagovailoa’s success. So by granting the fifth-year veteran a large payday, you’re handicapping your team with a tight budget, and can no longer surround the 2020 first-round pick with the weapons group that helped him reach this level of play.