On Thursday, Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa remarked that discussing the quarterback role is far simpler than executing it on the field. When questioned about whether he faces more scrutiny for his contract than his performance, Tagovailoa indicated that his job is more challenging than critics portray.
Specifically addressing remarks made by Cam Newton on ESPN’s “First Take” after the Dolphins’ 31-21 defeat to the Buffalo Bills, Tagovailoa responded to Newton’s critique of his play, given the four-year, $212.1 million contract extension he signed last summer.
Newton pointed out, “Tagovailoa is earning more than Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, Lamar Jackson, Jalen Hurts, Baker Mayfield, Matthew Stafford, Jayden Daniels. Am I pocket watching? No, I’m providing perspective. … With more money comes higher expectations.
This year alone, I’ve heard more about Tua than ever before. I prefer the quiet Tua, the Alabama Tua, the Tua with a chip on his shoulder, not the one talking about whether someone’s coming to review film.
Given what you’re paid, what’s expected of you, and what you’re capable of—as one quarterback to another—I’m like, come on, man. Especially when you’ve got a Ferrari, a Lamborghini, and resources other quarterbacks can only dream of.”
Tagovailoa acknowledged that his performance has been “nowhere near” his potential but brushed off Newton’s comments while addressing football analysts broadly. “If it’s that easy, anybody could play quarterback in this league. I’d love to see someone off the street come try it,” he said. “Cam’s doing his thing, no doubt, but it’s simpler to stand there with a clicker and point out someone’s mistakes or critique what they’re doing wrong when you’re not out there facing the same challenges. It’s easy to talk like that. Anyone can do it. But not everyone can play quarterback.”
Tagovailoa’s five touchdown passes rank him tied for seventh in the NFL through three games, though his four interceptions are tied for second-most. His quarterback rating of 35.8 places him 29th, and his 6.4 air yards per attempt ranks 25th.
He has committed turnovers in each of Miami’s three games this season, as the Dolphins started 0-3 for the first time since 2019. Head coach Mike McDaniel noted that Tagovailoa has room for growth but commended his mindset amid the team’s struggles.
“A franchise quarterback’s game is never static … there are opportunities he needs to seize,” McDaniel said.
“There are also plenty of chances to turn the ball over that he’s avoided. He’s stepped up 99 percent of the time. … It’s not easy being in his position, but I’m pleased with his mental state and focus.
A less resilient person would struggle in any quarterback’s shoes during a losing streak. He’s locked in on going 1-0 against the New York Jets, and that focus is why I believe in his ability and am excited for his next chance, which we’ve been preparing for all week.”
In 2023, Tagovailoa led the NFL in passing yards, marking the only season he played every game. In 2024, he missed a career-high six games due to injuries and emphasized that “getting down” to protect himself is a key focus for 2025.
