Dolphins Plan to Pick up Tagovailoa's Fifth-Year Option
News 3/10/23
The Miami Dolphins reiterated their commitment to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa on Friday — with concrete action.
The Dolphins plan to pick up the fifth-year option on Tagovailoa's rookie contract, NFL Media reported. The 2024 option is worth $23.2 million and ensures Tagovailoa remains under contract for the next two seasons.
There was speculation that the Dolphins were not fully committed to the 2020 first-round pick out of Alabama. Lingering questions about Tagovailoa's durability fueled rumors that the Dolphins could again seek a veteran quarterback with star power.
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Tagovailoa had a tumultuous third professional season in 2022, plagued by head injuries that dominated the headlines for chunks of the regular season. When he did play, however, he was productive and efficient. In 13 starts, Tagovailoa finished 8-5 while completing 64.8 percent of his passes for 3,548 yards passing and 25 touchdowns against just eight interceptions.
The Dolphins finished the season 9-8 under first-year head coach Mike McDaniel. They made the playoffs but were bounced in the first round by their division rivals, the Buffalo Bills.
The Dolphins hope Tagovailoa can take a step forward with his play on the field and his durability in 2023. Miami's commitment to him on Friday could provide the confidence boost he needs to do just that and give the Dolphins the edge they need to advance in the postseason.