Dolphins under fire as Tua Tagovailoa’s poor performance raises calls for a quarterback shakeup

The Miami Dolphins are already staring down a potential quarterback crisis after just one week of the 2025 NFL season. Following a humiliating 33-8 defeat to the Indianapolis Colts, questions about Mike McDaniel’s leadership and Tua Tagovailoa’s ability to lead this offense are growing louder by the day.

Once hailed for his offensive creativity, McDaniel now appears unable to stop the downward spiral, leaving fans and analysts wondering if a quarterback change is inevitable.

Tua Tagovailoa’s costly mistakes highlight team’s fragile state

Tua Tagovailoa’s performance in Week 1 was nothing short of disastrous. Completing just 114 passing yards with two interceptions and a lost fumble, his 51.7 passer rating painted a grim picture. Each turnover seemed more painful than the last: an overthrow to Tyreek Hill picked off by Camryn Bynum, and a dangerous third-down throw intercepted by rookie Laiatu Latu.

As Dan Graziano of ESPN noted, “It’s possible Tagovailoa keeps struggling, though he has generally played well under Mike McDaniel when healthy.” Yet, with three sacks and a visible struggle to find rhythm, Miami’s offensive line appears unable to provide the protection needed for Tua to thrive.

Financial and strategic pressure pushes the dolphins toward tough decisions

With over $104 million in guaranteed money on Tua’s contract through 2026, cutting him this year would result in a staggering $137.6 million dead cap hit.

Still, the deeper dilemma isn’t just about money—it’s about the future direction of the franchise. Graziano highlighted a critical point: “If this season bottoms out and the Dolphins are picking at or near the top of what’s thought to be a QB-rich draft, it’s not a huge leap to expect them to think about the future at that position.” Tyreek Hill’s frustration, symbolized by past outbursts and his stripped captaincy, underscores the growing unrest in the locker room.Also Read: Micah Parsons calls Cowboys offseason ‘super toxic’ as Packers enjoy instant impact from their new defensive starAs the Dolphins prepare for Week 2 against New England, one thing is clear—time is running out to save this season.