MIAMI — The future of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa with the Miami Dolphins is a top priority for the team’s general manager, Chris Grier. While contract negotiations were put on hold during the regular season, Grier assured the media that talks will intensify this offseason. With Tagovailoa entering the final year of his rookie deal, the Dolphins aim to keep him in South Florida for the long term. Although monetary discussions have not taken place, Grier emphasized that the focus is on Tagovailoa’s performance and maintaining a high level of play. The negotiations will primarily remain internal and be conducted through Tagovailoa’s representatives.
Tagovailoa had an impressive season, leading the NFL in passing yards with 4,624. He achieved career-highs in passing touchdowns (29) and completion percentage (69.3%). However, his performance in the final three games, including the AFC wild-card loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, raised concerns. Tagovailoa threw just four touchdowns and five interceptions during this period and failed to surpass 200 passing yards in two of those games. Despite these challenges, Tagovailoa remains unfazed by the impending contract negotiations and expressed confidence in his abilities. He prioritizes reflecting on the team’s recent loss and finding ways to improve for the upcoming season.
Playing every game this season was a significant achievement for Tagovailoa, as he overcame multiple concussions in 2022 that resulted in him missing five games and part of a sixth. To prepare for the physical demands of the season, he focused on strength training and participated in a jiu-jitsu program. The Dolphins’ coach, Mike McDaniel, applauded Tagovailoa’s growth and aspires to see more improvement in the months to come. McDaniel acknowledges that progress doesn’t always guarantee desired outcomes but emphasizes Tagovailoa’s ability to learn from each experience. He hopes for continued development and the exploration of new strategies to enhance Tagovailoa’s game. While McDaniel dismissed the possibility of Tagovailoa becoming a zone-read option quarterback, he acknowledged Tagovailoa’s proficiency in buying extra time when necessary.
In addition to Tagovailoa’s contractual situation, the Dolphins are also facing important decisions regarding their other free agents. Defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, who becomes an unrestricted free agent this offseason, has gained recognition for his contributions. Grier acknowledged that Wilkins has “earned the right to be a free agent” and expressed the team’s determination to retain their first-round pick from the 2019 draft. While contract negotiations in previous summers did not yield an agreement, Grier appreciated Wilkins’ dedication and decision to bet on himself. The Dolphins will continue communicating with Wilkins and his representatives to reach a favorable outcome.
The Dolphins also have intentions to retain offensive linemen Connor Williams and Robert Hunt, both of whom are upcoming free agents. Grier confirmed that the team has engaged in contract conversations with Hunt during the season. Hunt, a second-round pick in 2020, has expressed his desire to remain with the team that drafted him. Grier recognizes the contributions of Williams and Hunt and stated that the team wants to keep them onboard.
The Miami Dolphins’ commitment to securing a bright future for Tua Tagovailoa reflects their confidence in his ability to lead the team. The negotiations surrounding his contract, along with the discussions regarding other free agents, highlight the team’s dedication to building a strong roster. As the offseason progresses, the Dolphins will work internally and communicate with the players’ representatives to reach mutually beneficial agreements. The goal is to retain key contributors and continue building a competitive team for the future.
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