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Dolphins Confront Massive Dead-Cap Reality on Tua as Bench Option Emerges

New reporting details dead-money costs that make a trade unlikely before June 1.

Overview

  • After parting with general manager Chris Grier, Miami sits 2-7 as quarterback scrutiny intensifies.
  • Ian Rapoport reports cutting Tua Tagovailoa would cost $99.2 million in dead cap, or $67.4 million if designated post–June 1 and spread over two years.
  • A pre–June 1 trade would leave $45.2 million in dead money versus $13.4 million after June 1, pointing to a later move that likely requires Miami to pay down salary.
  • Rapoport says benching is not off the table this season, with Zach Wilson or rookie Quinn Ewers possible options if performance declines further.
  • Coverage relaying CBS reporting says injury history and a damaged reputation could depress trade interest, increasing the odds Miami keeps him into 2026 despite his NFL-high 11 interceptions.