In the aftermath of the Miami Dolphins’Wild Card loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, one question has dominated the discourse of NFL fans and analysts: IS quarterback Tua Tagovailoa able take the Dolphins to the next level?
Miami, boasting the No. 1 offense in the league during the regular season, now face critical decisions regarding the future.
Tua Tagovailoa’s regular season success not enough
The disappointment of the 26-7 loss to the Chiefs has cast a shadow over a season that showcased the Dolphins’ offensive prowess.
The team’s struggle against playoff-caliber opponents exposed a vulnerability, culminating in a 1-6 record against postseason-bound teams.
The end-of-season slump, with one touchdown in the final 16 offensive possessions, further fueled the debate on accountability.
Tagovailoa’s performance, while stellar throughout the regular season, faced scrutiny under the frigid Kansas City conditions.
The fourth-coldest game in NFL history saw the quarterback completing 20 of 39 passes for 199 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
As the offseason looms, the Dolphins grapple with the decision to extend Tagovailoa’s contract.
The fifth-year option guarantees him $23.17 million next season, and Spotrac’s market value tool projects a potential six-year, $302,781,786 extension with an annual average value of $50.46 million.
The dilemma becomes whether Miami is comfortable making such a financial commitment and if they are entirely convinced Tagovailoa is their quarterback of the future.
Dolphins to face crossroads this offseason
General manager Chris Grier faces a nuanced challenge.
While Tagovailoa’s statistics position him favorably, questions linger about his ability to carry the team independently.
The postseason setback has intensified the scrutiny, with some questioning if Tagovailoa can lead the Dolphins to the desired heights.
The aftermath of the 2023 season raises doubts about an immediate long-term extension. While Tagovailoa’s regular-season achievements are noteworthy, the failure to deliver in the playoffs has shifted the narrative.
The precedent set by his peers, Joe Burrow, Jalen Hurts, and Justin Herbert, who secured multi-year extensions, further complicates the decision-making process.
The Dolphins, constrained by salary cap challenges and a lack of high draft picks, find themselves in a delicate position.
The urgency to replace Tagovailoa is tempered by financial constraints and limited draft options.
However, the quarterback is now on notice, with the expectation that postseason success in 2024 is imperative to secure a long-term deal.
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