James Brizuela, a contributing sports writer, delves into the intricate predicament facing the Miami Dolphins concerning their standout quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa. Following his impressive performance in the 2023 season, where Tagovailoa led the NFL with 4,624 passing yards and secured 29 touchdowns, discussions about his contract extension have intensified.
Despite being granted the fifth-year option on his rookie contract, guaranteeing him $23.17 million, Tagovailoa’s stellar season has sparked widespread agreement that he merits a substantial extension. Analysts have debated the appropriate compensation for Tagovailoa, comparing him to top-paid quarterbacks such as Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson.
While Tagovailoa’s accomplishments may not match those of Burrow or Jackson, he is regarded on par with quarterbacks like Justin Herbert and Russell Wilson. Therefore, it’s suggested that his extension should exceed $50 million annually.
Several of Tagovailoa’s teammates, including wide receiver Tyreek Hill and cornerback Jalen Ramsey, have voiced support for him to receive an extension. Ramsey notably advocated for Tagovailoa’s pay raise through a cleverly crafted Instagram post, urging the Dolphins to take action.
Will OBJ and Jalen Ramsey run it back in MIA? 🏆👀 https://t.co/TNmAKZD6Pp pic.twitter.com/QUd4CSs4Et
— The 33rd Team (@The33rdTeamFB) May 3, 2024
However, the Dolphins’ financial constraints, exacerbated by offseason moves to improve cap compliance, pose a challenge to Tagovailoa’s immediate extension. With limited available cap space, discussions about his extension may be deferred to the 2025 season, despite Tagovailoa’s team pushing for an extension sooner.
