The Miami Dolphins have a lot riding on the 2025 season — and if things go south, plenty of people could be on the way out. That includes starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
Tagovailoa’s career has been a mixed bag since entering the league in 2020. He’s made it through just one full season, which came in 2023 — the same year he earned Pro Bowl honors and signed a $212.4 million contract extension.
But injuries once again derailed Tagovailoa and the Dolphins in 2024. He missed six games, and the team missed the playoffs for the first time in two years. As a result, there’s a level of caution surrounding both player and team heading into this season.
“Having played just one full season since entering the league in 2020 and missing six games last year after signing a blockbuster extension, the quarterback may not be the long-term answer for this long-suffering squad,” Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay said.
Tagovailoa still has his supporters, including one of his former protectors — recently retired five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Terron Armstead.
“I think he's special, I really do,” Armstead said on Good Morning Football. “I’ve been very loud about my support of Tua as a teammate, as a fan. I think he can do really special things with the football in his hand.
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“I may be the one who originated the Drew Brees comparison, and I’ll stand on that. I will. He’s very talented.”
When asked why he continues to defend Tagovailoa, Armstead said, “I’ve seen it. I’ve seen it in close proximity. I’ve seen his preparation. We’ve seen him collectively as football fans improve since his rookie year until now.”
Armstead also believes this will be the season Tagovailoa takes the next step in leadership — particularly in the fourth quarter, two-minute drills, and late-game situations that separate the good from the great.
Unfortunately for Tagovailoa, Armstead may be one of the few still in his corner. However, not all of the blame may on the quarterback. The Dolphins are dealing with a roster full of discontent, including star cornerback Jalen Ramsey seeking a trade and reports of head coach Mike McDaniel losing control of the locker room.
Losing Armstead, who spent 12 years in the league with the Dolphins and Saints, could also be a major setback. His absence will leave Tagovailoa with one less trusted protector on an offensive line that’s already facing serious questions.