Michael Lombardi Explains Why Dolphins ‘Won’t Have the Guts’ to Refuse Tua Tagovailoa Money Despite Jaylen Waddle & Tyreek Hill Taking Up 20% Cap Space

The Miami Dolphins have already invested a lot of money in their star wide receivers, Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill, who take up 20% of the team’s salary cap. Now, the big question is whether they will also pay big money to their quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, for his next contract. NFL analyst Michael Lombardi recently discussed this situation in PMS Live.

Tua Tagovailoa is set to earn $23.1 million in the option year of his rookie contract. If both Tua and the Dolphins agreed on his next contract’s value, they would have already signed it. So, what does Tua want? And what is the team willing to pay? These questions are crucial, and the answers will determine the team’s future direction.

Michael pointed out, “One of the beautiful things about a salary cap and about players at positions making money is water seeks its level; everybody rises to the next one and they know teams don’t have the guts to be able to say.” In other words, Lombardi believes that the Dolphins might not be brave enough to move on from Tua and find a new, cheaper quarterback, even though it might be a better financial decision.

The Dolphins could consider other quarterbacks, such as Dak Prescott, Kirk Cousins, or Deshaun Watson, who might be available in the next few years. These quarterbacks could potentially lead the team with a dynamic offense, featuring top receivers like Hill and Waddle. Michael emphasized that while Tua might not be worth the $50 million or more per year, he could demand.

If the Dolphins decide to pay Tua a high salary, they must balance their budget carefully. Lombardi explained, “Tyreek Hill takes up 12% of the cap. Waddle takes up 8% of the cap. Now that’s 20% of the cap. If I go and pay Tua, you know, 35, 30% of the cap, what do I have left for the rest of my team?” This means that paying Tua a huge salary would leave less money for other crucial positions on the team, potentially weakening the overall squad.

However, amidst the controversy, Tagovailoa surprised everyone with his new look at a meet-and-greet on Thursday.

Tua Tagovailoa surprises fans

The 26-year-old revealed his grown-out curls and a cleanly shaved face at the launch of his Perry Ellis collection at Macy’s Aventura. Tagovailoa was at the event to launch his Perry Ellis collection, which added to the excitement. Fans were not only thrilled to see his new look but also excited about the new clothing line. 

Giselle Espinales posted a ten-second video of Tagovailoa’s event on X. Fans quickly filled the comment section with jokes and reactions. One fan joked, “Bruno Mars [is] tripping,” comparing Tua’s new look to the famous pop star, who also hails from Hawaii.

Throughout the event, Tua was friendly and approachable. Whether fans prefer his old look or his new one, Tua’s charm and down-to-earth nature remain unchanged, making him a favorite both on the field and in public events.