The Atlanta Falcons reportedly will sign quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to a one-year deal, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter. It was announced on Monday that the Miami Dolphins were parting ways with Tagovailoa, with their decision to release the QB to be processed with a post-June 1 designation – allowing Miami to divide the $99.2 million dead-cap hit over two seasons ($67.4 million in 2026 and $31.8 million in 2027) — making it the largest dead-cap charge in NFL history.
Tagovailoa’s departure comes only a year after signing a four-year, $212.4 million extension, the richest deal in franchise history. Miami still owes him $54 million in guaranteed money for 2026, though that amount could be offset if he signs with the Falcons. Dolphins general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan informed Tagovailoa that the team plans to part ways when the new league year begins Wednesday. “As I shared with Tua, I have great respect for the person and player he is,” Sullivan said. “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.”
The Dolphins’ decision follows a disappointing 7-10 campaign in 2025 and signals a broader roster reset under Sullivan and new head coach Jeff Hafley. Several notable players have already been moved, including wide receiver Tyreek Hill, pass rusher Bradley Chubb, offensive lineman James Daniels and receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine. The team also traded defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick to the New York Jets.
Meanwhile, the Falcons are seeking stability at quarterback after a turbulent season and several major leadership changes. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero had earlier reported: “The Falcons are making a strong push to sign former Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa and a deal could come together soon, sources tell The Insiders. No deal can be finalized until Tua is officially released Wednesday. But signs point to Atlanta.” Atlanta recently hired former Cleveland Browns coach Kevin Stefanski as head coach and brought in Ian Cunningham as general manager. Franchise legend Matt Ryan was also appointed president of football operations to oversee the front office and coaching staff.
Tagovailoa, selected fifth overall in the 2020 draft out of Alabama, spent six seasons in Miami and posted a 44-32 record as a starter. Over that span, he threw for 18,166 yards with 120 touchdowns and 59 interceptions. His most productive stretch came during his time with former head coach Mike McDaniel. In 2022, Tagovailoa led the NFL in passer rating while throwing for 3,548 yards and 25 touchdowns, though multiple concussions forced him to miss several games. A year later, he topped the league in passing yards with 4,624 and earned a Pro Bowl selection while guiding Miami to one of the NFL’s most explosive offenses before a playoff loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. In 2024, he led the NFL in completion percentage but missed six games because of injuries. His performance declined further in 2025, when he threw a career-high 15 interceptions and was benched for the final three games of the season.
Shortly after the news became public, Tagovailoa shared a farewell message on social media reflecting on his time in Miami: “wearing this jersey and representing this city has been one of the greatest joys of my life. … As I prepare for the next chapter, I move forward with gratitude, faith, and memories I’ll cherish for a lifetime.” The quarterback also thanked Dolphins fans directly, writing, “To the fans — your energy, loyalty, and passion meant everything.”
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