Dolphins Bench Tua Tagovailoa for Remaining Season

Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel announced on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, that quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has been demoted and will not start the team's remaining three games. This significant shift comes after the Dolphins officially secured a playoff miss. Rookie Quinn Ewers, drafted in the seventh round, has been elevated to the starting quarterback position, with Zach Wilson serving as his backup.

Tagovailoa's benching is attributed to his difficult statistical season, including leading the league with 15 interceptions and posting his lowest passer rating since his rookie year. The quarterback, who signed a substantial four-year, $212 million contract in July 2024, will now be the third-string option. Coach McDaniel stated the decision was made because Ewers gives the team the best chance to win their upcoming games, focusing initially on beating the Cincinnati Bengals.

McDaniel described the conversation with Tagovailoa as "tough" but noted the quarterback exhibited leadership by understanding the situation and agreeing to help Ewers prepare for his first start. Tagovailoa's future with the franchise beyond 2026 is now uncertain. Ewers will have the opportunity to showcase his potential in games against the Cincinnati Bengals, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and New England Patriots.