The Miami Dolphins are at a crossroads, and the future of Tua Tagovailoa may depend on this season.
After missing significant time due to injury last year, the Dolphins were 2-4 without him and finished 8-9 and missed the playoffs for the first time since Mike McDaniel took over as head coach.
Tua knows the stakes better than anyone.
“I’m doing everything I can to stay available for the guys,” he said during the opening of Dolphins minicamp. “It’s knowing when is the time to give up on a play.”
But despite his commitment to staying healthy, there are concerns about durability and performance.
A Regressing Season Raises Red Flags
In 2023, Tua had one of the best seasons of his career — a Pro Bowl season with over 4,000 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions.
But in 2024, his numbers dropped off. He was 6-5 as a starter and struggled with consistency and decision making at times.
That regression, combined with health questions, has fans and analysts wondering if Miami needs to look elsewhere for long term stability at quarterback.
Could Drew Allar Be the Next Face of the Franchise?
One name being mentioned in Dolphins circles is Drew Allar, the highly touted quarterback from Penn State.
Projected by some outlets — including NFL Spin Zone’s Lou Scataglia — as a possible top-10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, Allar already has an impressive resume:
- Threw 53 touchdowns in a single season at the prep level
- Led Penn State to multiple Big Ten titles
- Known for elite poise, arm talent, and leadership on the field
If Allar comes back for his senior season and leads Penn State deep into the College Football Playoff, he’ll solidify himself as a top prospect and the Dolphins might not be able to resist.
Scataglia’s mock draft even asks the question:
“Is Tua really a franchise quarterback? Is this someone who they can absolutely win with?”
The Culture Shift and What It Means for Tua
In the midst of all this, Tua mentioned a “culture shift” but didn’t elaborate.
Whether that means a new offense, locker room, or quarterback remains to be seen.
What is clear is that the pressure is on for Tua and the Dolphins’ front office.
If he struggles again or misses more time, Miami will be in a position to draft a new QB — maybe one with 53 touchdowns.