In a surprising turn of events, the Miami Dolphins may be contemplating a trade for quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, but only under specific conditions. Despite their ongoing commitment to Tagovailoa, the team now faces the reality of his substantial contract, which runs through the 2028 season and carries an obligation of $121.4 million in salary, as reported by Spotrac.
Recent insights from CBS Sports insider Jonathan Jones reveal that an unnamed NFL team might be open to acquiring Tagovailoa”s hefty contract. However, this potential trade hinges on the Dolphins also providing a first-round draft pick as part of the deal. Jones noted, “One high-ranking team executive told CBS Sports he had considered taking on Tagovailoa if the Dolphins would send a first-round pick to take on the freight of his contract.” Such arrangements are usually frowned upon in the league, with the only notable precedent being the trade involving Brock Osweiler in 2017.
The Houston Texans dealt Osweiler and a second-round pick to the Cleveland Browns, allowing them to save $10 million in salary-cap space and $16 million in cash just one year after signing him to a four-year, $72 million deal.
If the Dolphins are unwilling to part with a first-round selection, Jones suggests they may be left with no option but to release Tagovailoa. This would enable the team to spread his significant cap hit over multiple years. Specifically, the Dolphins could exercise Tagovailoa”s 2026 option shortly after the league year begins, followed by a post-June 1 release. This strategy would result in a $99 million dead cap hit, splitting the burden across two seasons while allowing Tagovailoa to sign with a new team at the veteran minimum.
This scenario would set a record for the largest dead-cap hit in NFL history, surpassing the previous record of $85 million held by the Denver Broncos after they parted ways with Russell Wilson.
Last season, Tagovailoa demonstrated his abilities by completing 67.7 percent of his passes for 2,660 yards, along with 20 touchdowns and 15 interceptions, according to Pro Football Reference. However, lingering concerns regarding his physical condition and concussion history could significantly impact his marketability, even as a free agent.
