Miami Dolphins have officially benched Tua Tagovailoa, naming rookie Quinn Ewers to start against the Cincinnati Bengals. The decision was confirmed by ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Wednesday. It follows the team’s 28‑15 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, which ended any playoff hopes. The move signals a shift in the Dolphins’ offensive strategy.
Rostering Decision
Head coach Mike McDaniel was non‑committal about Tagovailoa’s status after the Steelers game. He told reporters on Tuesday via NFL Network, “The quarterback play last night was not good enough. So for me, everything is on the table.” McDaniel’s statement leaves the future of the starting job open. Ewers, a seventh‑round rookie from the University of Texas, has been the emergency quarterback all season.
Contract Implications
Tagovailoa signed a four‑year, $212 million extension with the Dolphins in July 2024. The contract keeps him on the roster through 2028. He already has $54 million guaranteed for 2026. Cutting him would cost the team $99 million in dead money, a significant financial consideration.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season was Tagovailoa’s first under the new extension. He started the Dolphins’ first 14 games, completing 67.7% of his passes. He threw for 2,660 yards, 20 touchdowns, and a league‑leading 15 interceptions. Those numbers reflect both his productivity and the challenges he faced at the quarterback position.
Upcoming Games
Ewers will face the Bengals in Week 16. The Dolphins will close out the season with a Week 17 home game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The final week, Week 18, will see the team travel to New England for a road matchup against the Patriots. These games will determine the team’s final record and any postseason aspirations.
Key Takeaways
- Tua Tagovailoa has been benched in favor of rookie Quinn Ewers for the Bengals game.
- Tagovailoa’s contract carries a $212 million extension and $54 million guaranteed for 2026.
- The 2025 season saw Tagovailoa throw 2,660 yards, 20 TDs, and 15 interceptions over 14 starts.
The Dolphins’ decision to move on from their starting quarterback underscores the urgency of addressing offensive performance. With a new starter on the field and a contract that carries significant financial implications, the team faces a pivotal moment as it heads into the final stretch of the season.
