A promising NFL season has taken a concerning turn for the Miami Dolphins. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who led the league in passing yards and directed the number one offense to an 11-win season in 2023, suffered a concussion in a Week 2 loss to the Buffalo Bills. The injury has forced him to miss at least the next three games, leaving the team’s offense in uncertainty.
In Tagovailoa’s absence, backup quarterback Skylar Thompson struggled in a 24-3 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, throwing for only 107 yards before being knocked out of the game with a rib injury. Tim Boyle, his replacement, didn’t fare much better, completing 7 of 13 passes for 79 yards. The offense managed a mere 205 total yards, a significant drop from their season average in 2023.
With Tagovailoa’s future uncertain, the Dolphins face a challenging road ahead. They have a loaded AFC conference schedule, including games against the Tennessee Titans, New England Patriots, Indianapolis Colts, and Arizona Cardinals before a visit to the Bills on November 3. The quarterback situation has the potential to hinder one of the most expensive wide receiver rooms in the NFL, limiting the offense’s overall performance.
According to NFL rules, Tagovailoa must miss at least four games before being eligible to return. Coach McDaniel has emphasized the importance of Tagovailoa’s health, stating that there is no timeline for his return. The team is focused on ensuring their franchise quarterback is fully recovered before allowing him to take the field again.
While Tagovailoa’s extension includes $167.1 million in guaranteed money, his future in the NFL is uncertain. If he is medically cleared to play and retires, he forfeits his right to any remaining guaranteed money. The most likely outcome in this scenario is a good faith settlement between Tagovailoa and the Dolphins.
The Dolphins’ current quarterback situation is precarious, with Thompson, Boyle, and Tyler Huntley as their only options. If Tagovailoa doesn’t return, Miami may need to explore alternative options, such as trading for a veteran quarterback or drafting a young quarterback in the 2025 NFL draft.
Ultimately, the Dolphins’ season hangs in the balance, and the team’s ability to address the quarterback position will be crucial in determining their fate.
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