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Dolphins Bench Tua Tagovailoa, Name Rookie Quinn Ewers Week 16 Starter

The decision signals an evaluation period constrained by Tagovailoa’s $212 million contract, including a potential $99 million dead-cap hit.

Overview

  • Head coach Mike McDaniel confirmed Quinn Ewers will start against the Bengals in Week 16, with Zach Wilson as the backup and Tua Tagovailoa in an emergency role.
  • Miami was eliminated from playoff contention in a 28-15 loss to the Steelers, after which McDaniel said the quarterback play was not good enough.
  • Tagovailoa leads the NFL with 15 interceptions and said he is disappointed by the demotion while acknowledging his performance has not met expectations.
  • Tagovailoa’s four-year, $212.4 million extension limits flexibility, with reports estimating a $99.2 million dead-cap charge if released before June 1 that could be split with a post-June 1 designation.
  • The Dolphins also waived veteran pass rusher Matthew Judon, continuing roster churn following the midseason exit of longtime GM Chris Grier.