After the Miami Dolphins announced the firing of head coach Mike McDaniel on Thursday, ESPN”s Stephen A. Smith directed his criticism toward quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
In a passionate minute-long segment on “First Take,” Smith accused Tagovailoa of being a significant factor in the team”s recent coaching changes, referencing the fallout from Brian Flores“s time as head coach. Many around the league felt that McDaniel”s dismissal was unavoidable after a four-year stint that resulted in a 35-33 record. However, Smith believes that the repercussions should extend beyond just the head coach.
Smith, who has been a vocal supporter of Flores during his tenure from 2019 to 2021, suggested that Tagovailoa”s failure to support Flores contributed to the instability within the team, ultimately hindering his own career progress in the NFL. Since taking over as the primary starter in Week 7 of the 2020 season, Tagovailoa”s hold on the position has weakened considerably this year.
A series of disappointing performances led to Tagovailoa being benched in Week 16, marking what many consider the worst season of his career. Rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers, selected in the seventh round, stepped in and started the final three games for Miami. With McDaniel now out, the Dolphins appear poised for a complete overhaul, leaving Tagovailoa”s future with the franchise uncertain.
It seems increasingly probable that Tagovailoa and the Dolphins will part ways in the upcoming offseason. Following his benching for the last three games of the 2025 season, Tagovailoa suggested that a fresh start could be beneficial for both him and the organization. While clearing out his locker on Monday, he faced inquiries from reporters regarding his thoughts on a new beginning.
This season has been challenging for Tagovailoa, who ended with a career-high of 15 interceptions and an 88.5 passer rating across 14 games, marking his lowest rating since 2020. However, his four-year, $212.4 million contract extension for 2024, with $167.2 million guaranteed, complicates a potential breakup with Miami, raising questions about whether the team will choose to move on despite his struggles.
The Dolphins are likely to explore any trades that could recoup value for Tagovailoa, which would help mitigate the impact of his dead-cap hit.
Fans of the Miami Dolphins can check out the latest team schedule and explore the Dolphins” depth chart for the 2024-25 NFL season.
