Recently released Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has emerged as a top option for the Atlanta Falcons.
Just hours after the Miami Dolphins released quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, another team has emerged as a top option for him.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Atlanta Falcons are expected to pursue Tagovailoa at the start of the new league season.
The Dolphins announced Monday that they have released the six-year quarterback.
By cutting the former No. 5 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, Miami will absorb an NFL-record $99.2 million in dead money.
"As I shared with Tua, I have great respect for the person and player he is," first-year Dolphins general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan said in a statement. "On behalf of the Miami Dolphins, I expressed our gratitude for his many contributions, both on the field and in the community, during his six seasons in Miami.
"As we move forward, we will be focused on infusing competition across the roster and establishing a strong foundation for this team as we work toward building a sustained winner."
The Falcons are one of the few teams in the market for a quarterback. As things stand, they desperately need one, as they are set to release Kirk Cousins after only two seasons. On top of that, they need to manage the uncertainty of Michael Penix Jr.’s recovery from a 2025 ACL injury.
The Falcons and Tagovailoa could be exactly what both sides need.
Tagovailoa released a lengthy and heartfelt message after being released by the Dolphins.
"To the Miami Dolphins organization, my teammates, the front office, and the incredible fans - Thank you for six unforgettable years," Tagovailoa wrote.
"From the moment I arrived, you believed in me, supported me, and embraced my family as your own. I was able to marry my wife and welcome both my kids to this world. I was able to fortunately allow them to experience life from one I never got to growing up. Wearing this jersey and representing this city has been one of the greatest joys of my life.
"To my teammates and coaches, thank you for the battles, the brotherhood, and the standard of excellence we tried achieving every single day we step foot on that field. I’ve met so many of your families and cherish the friendships I’ve been able to make these last 6 years. The work we put in together, the wins we celebrated, and even the tough moments shaped me not just as a player, but as a man."
With the Dolphins still owing Tagovailoa $54 million in guaranteed money this season, he could become an intriguing option for teams on a minimum deal.