Tua Tagovailoa Gets Strong Statement From Dolphins’ Patrick Paul

July 10, 2026 - 05:41

The Miami Dolphins made a major move this offseason by parting ways with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. The decision, orchestrated by general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan, comes with a steep price. It will cost the team an NFL-record $99.2 million in dead money against the salary cap. To soften the financial blow, the Dolphins will designate Tagovailoa's release as post-June 1. This allows the organization to split the dead cap hit over two seasons.

Despite the front office's decision, not everyone in the building has turned their back on the former quarterback. Dolphins offensive lineman Patrick Paul recently issued a strong statement in support of Tagovailoa. Paul praised his former teammate's leadership and toughness, calling him a true competitor who gave everything to the franchise. He emphasized that Tagovailoa's impact on the locker room went beyond his stats on the field.

The departure marks the end of an era for Miami, which invested heavily in Tagovailoa as the face of the franchise. Now, the team faces an uncertain future under center while carrying one of the largest financial penalties in league history. Tagovailoa, meanwhile, is expected to draw interest from several quarterback-needy teams as he looks to restart his career elsewhere.