Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa recently found himself facing questions about his future as the team”s starter for the first time under head coach Mike McDaniel. Speculation arose after an NFL.com report suggested that if Tagovailoa”s performance did not improve during the current season, which has seen the team struggle to a 2-7 record with a league-high 11 interceptions, the Dolphins might consider giving backup quarterback Zach Wilson or rookie Quinn Ewers a shot at starting.
Despite the media chatter, Tagovailoa expressed that he is not concerned about such rumors. “I haven”t heard about any of that,” he stated. “No social media for me, so that”s the first time I”m hearing it.” Head coach McDaniel reaffirmed his commitment to Tagovailoa as the starting quarterback, emphasizing that Tagovailoa provides the best opportunity for the team to win. “We play the players that give us the best chance to win,” McDaniel explained. “When that changes, or if someone else gives us a better shot, then we adjust there.”
Tagovailoa firmly rejected the idea that he is playing to save his job, stating, “I wouldn”t say I”m playing to keep my job. I would say I”m playing to help my team win every time.” He acknowledged that his performance needs to improve but clarified that his focus remains on team success rather than personal job security. “That”s not the standard in which I”ve been playing all these other years,” he added.
This week, McDaniel has been focusing on getting Tagovailoa back to basics as they prepare for their next matchup against the Buffalo Bills. Tagovailoa described this approach as returning to the fundamental aspects of football that had previously contributed to his success. “It”s the footwork, matching that up with each play, and then the confidence within that,” he elaborated.
Regarding Wilson and Ewers, Tagovailoa acknowledged their efforts in practice, noting, “They”re doing really well with scout team; they”re rotating through that and they”re competing.” He also took a moment to reflect on recent changes within the organization, specifically mentioning the departure of general manager Chris Grier, who was instrumental in drafting him in 2020. “I really appreciate that he gave me the opportunity to get drafted here,” Tagovailoa remarked. “That”s just the business aspect of it, but I appreciate Chris, I appreciate his wife, Paige, and the things they”ve done for this organization.”
Tagovailoa expressed sadness over the trade of outside linebacker Jaelan Phillips, a teammate for five seasons, describing it as a tough aspect of the business. “It”s the nature of the beast, and we all understand that,” he said. However, he was relieved to see that most of his offensive teammates remained with the team, which he believes will aid in their preparation. “When you can have those guys stay, it helps with everything,” he stated.
As for his health, Tagovailoa is no longer listed on the injury report for either his thumb or the eye issue that had caused swelling prior to their victory against the Atlanta Falcons. He noted that while his left eye still appears red, he is following medical advice and taking antibiotics. “I don”t know what”s going on with that,” he admitted.
