The Miami Dolphins began their training camp at the Baptist Health Training Complex on Wednesday morning. Despite ongoing negotiations for a contract extension, starting quarterback T Thinh year, joined in for the practice session. Tua Tagovailoa, who is wrapping up his fifth season, participated on a limited basis as he has during spring’s organized team activities (OTA), according to Coach Mike McDaniel.
During the 7-on-7s, Tagovailoa appeared effective, connecting on 6 of his 7 passes—one was dropped—before a pass deflected at the line was intercepted by rookie linebacker Ezekiel Vandenburgh. He was limited in 11-on-11 drills, where he took only a handful of snaps and made two handoffs.
Coach McDaniel noted that Tagovailoa’s involvement in contract talks, which have yet to result in a deal as he enters the final year of his rookie contract worth $23.2 million, is significant for both him and the team. He remains optimistic, noting good communication and a day-by-day approach to the situation. McDaniel also emphasized that the team is focused and not distracted by external factors, as they prepare for the season.
Tagovailoa, who led the league with 4,624 passing yards, 29 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions last season, has shown impressive stats but has yet to perform strongly in pivotal late-season games. His performance in a critical loss to the Chiefs in the playoffs last season was muted.
Negotiations appear to be aiming for a salary similar to those of quarterbacks like Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers and Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals, who have recently secured deals around $50 million per year.
When asked about public perception during these ongoing negotiations, McDaniel expressed confidence in his relationship with Tagovailoa and the team’s commitment to resolving the contract. He stated that great outcomes take time and believes in the process and in Tagovailoa’s ability to balance business aspects with his gameplay.
Tagovailoa’s presence at practice was positively received by teammates. Star cornerback Jalen Ramsey and promising rookie running back De’Von Achane both expressed enthusiasm for his leadership and hoped for a swift resolution to his contract situation to provide him with security and peace of mind. Achane particularly noted the boost Tagovailoa brings as a leader and how pivotal he is for the team’s morale.