​The Miami Dolphins chose to cut ties with Tua Tagovailoa this offseason, a move that comes with a hefty financial consequence for the franchise. General manager Jon-Eric Sullivan’s decision will leave the club facing an NFL-record $99.2 million in dead money against the salary cap. In addition, Tagovailoa’s release will be designated post-June 1, allowing Miami to spread the dead-money hit over two years, according to ESPN. After his departure from the Dolphins, Tagovailoa signed with the Atlanta Falcons to pursue a fresh start and compete for the starting quarterback role.
Even with his exit, there’s no lingering hostility from his former teammates. On the July 9 edition of The Set with Terron Armstead, Dolphins lineman Patrick Paul expressed strong support for Tagovailoa, calling him “my dog” and emphasizing his appreciation for who Tagovailoa is as a person. Paul acknowledged that last season didn’t unfold as Tagovailoa had hoped and noted that from his perspective, circumstances led to less-than-ideal outcomes. He believes the Falcons’ fresh environment could suit Tagovailoa well, predicting that he will win the starting job once Week 1 arrives.
In Miami last season, Tagovailoa faced 440 dropbacks, recording a 62.1 overall PFF grade. He threw for 2,660 yards and 20 touchdowns, with 15 interceptions, while also generating 18 big-time throws and 25 turnover-worthy plays. In Atlanta, the former Dolphins quarterback will need to outperform Michael Penix Jr. to secure the Week 1 starting nod, and Paul reiterated his confidence that Tagovailoa will emerge as the Falcons’ starter. He highlighted his belief that Tagovailoa will bounce back and thrive, paying close attention to what he can do with Atlanta’s surrounding weapons.
Terron Armstead added his own perspective, suggesting Tagovailoa could maximize Atlanta’s offensive talent if he wins the starting job. “He has a lot to prove by getting back to his best,” Armstead said. “They’ve got a lot of weapons in Atlanta, so if he’s able to win that starting job, watch out. It could be explosive.” Paul’s public support was echoed by Armstead, underscoring optimism for Tagovailoa’s potential resurgence.
Beyond those responses, former Dolphins offensive coordinator Frank Smith weighed in on Tagovailoa’s prospects in Atlanta during a May edition of The Set with Terron Armstead. Smith argued that if Tagovailoa remains true to himself, maintains conviction in his approach, and believes in his ability to play at his best, there is no ceiling to what he can achieve. Smith asserted that Tagovailoa has demonstrated the capability to maximize his potential when aligned with his own confidence and a consistent mindset.
As Tagovailoa begins this new chapter in Atlanta, observers will be watching to see if he can translate the optimism surrounding him into a successful on-field performance. The Falcons’ offense, equipped with a range of weapons, could provide the environment needed for him to reestablish himself as a top-tier quarterback, assuming he earns the starting role and executes at a high level.