Tua Tagovailoa Misses Voluntary Workouts Amid Contract Negotiations with Miami Dolphins

Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has been absent from most of the team's voluntary offseason workouts since April 15, reportedly due to his contract status. Tagovailoa, who has consistently attended voluntary workouts in his first four NFL seasons, is seeking a long-term deal with the franchise.

Tagovailoa is entering the final year of his rookie contract, which is worth $23.171 million. The quarterback's absence from the voluntary workouts is seen as a sign of his dissatisfaction with the current contract negotiations. Despite his absence, the Dolphins have expressed their desire to keep Tagovailoa for the long term.

In the 2023 season, Tagovailoa completed 69.3% of his passes for 4,624 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions. He led the NFL in passer rating in 2022 and topped the passing yards chart in 2023, earning Pro Bowl honors last year and helping lead Miami to the playoffs each of the last two seasons.

The recent four-year, $212 million contract extension signed by Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff, with $170 million guaranteed, has set a new benchmark for NFL franchise quarterbacks. Tagovailoa's representation is likely aiming for a similar or even higher contract value. CBS Sports' Jonathan Jones noted, 'the going rate for today's NFL franchise quarterbacks is around the $50 million per year mark.'

The Dolphins have the option to use the franchise tag on Tagovailoa in 2025 if necessary, but that would come at a significant cap figure. The franchise tag number for quarterbacks in 2024 is $38.301 million, and it is expected to rise in 2025.

Tagovailoa's absence from voluntary workouts raises questions about his future with the Dolphins. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, the uncertainty surrounding their star quarterback remains a crucial issue to resolve.

Key Takeaways

• Tua Tagovailoa absent from Dolphins' voluntary workouts since April 15.
• Tagovailoa seeking long-term deal with Dolphins, currently in final year of rookie contract.
• Recent QB contracts (e.g. Jared Goff's $212M extension) set benchmark for Tagovailoa's negotiations.
• Dolphins have franchise tag option in 2025, but it would come with significant cap figure.
• Tagovailoa's absence raises questions about his future with the Dolphins.