BREAKING: In a shocking move, the Miami Dolphins have officially benched star quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, replacing him with rookie Quinn Ewers for their upcoming game against the Cincinnati Bengals on December 17, 2025. This decision comes as the Dolphins, currently struggling, look to turn their season around.
Tagovailoa, who signed a lucrative $212.4 million contract extension last year, has faced significant challenges this season. He has thrown 20 touchdowns but also leads the league with 15 interceptions, resulting in a passing-efficiency rating of just 88.5. This marks a notable decline from his 2022 performance when he held the NFL’s best passing efficiency.
When asked about his future with the team, Tagovailoa expressed uncertainty:
“I can’t predict the future. It is what it is.”
He acknowledged his struggles, stating, “I haven’t been performing up to the level and the capabilities that I have in the past.”
The Dolphins’ decision to start Ewers, a seventh-round rookie, reflects their urgency to improve after a series of disappointing performances. Tagovailoa will now serve as the team’s emergency third quarterback, a surprising turn for a player who has been a key figure since his rookie year.
Despite his recent struggles, Tagovailoa remains committed to the team. He stated, “I love this team. I’ve created great relationships with these guys… I’ve got to do what I can to help.” His willingness to support Ewers highlights his dedication, even as he faces the prospect of being benched.
This season, Tagovailoa’s performance has dipped significantly. He boasts a 67.7 percent completion rate, which, while solid, is down by 5 percent from last season. His average passing yards have also decreased by 70.6 yards per game compared to 2024.
Should Tagovailoa remain with the Dolphins next season, he is set to cost the franchise $57 million, including a $54 million guarantee. If the Dolphins decide to release him, they would face a $99.2 million cap hit for the 2026 season, a staggering amount that represents almost one-third of their total salary cap.
In the wake of this drastic change, the Dolphins aim to recalibrate their playoff aspirations. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if this shift can reinvigorate a team that has struggled to find its footing in the competitive NFL landscape.
As the Dolphins prepare for Sunday’s game, the spotlight remains on both Tagovailoa and Ewers. Can the rookie lead the team to success, or will Tagovailoa find a way to reclaim his starting role? This developing situation promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
