Tua Tagovailoa is casting a close eye on the recent hefty contracts signed by top NFL quarterbacks, seemingly signaling his desire for a comparable deal, akin to Jared Goff’s four-year, $212 million extension with the Detroit Lions.
As contract discussions between Tagovailoa’s agents and the Miami Dolphins continue, there’s palpable tension, with financial terms being a significant stumbling block. Tagovailoa’s performance last season, although notable, didn’t secure the playoff victories that might have bolstered his negotiating position, unlike Goff’s success with the Lions.
The uncertainty surrounding Tagovailoa’s extension might extend to Cincinnati Bengals’ star receiver Ja’Marr Chase, who is also eyeing a lucrative deal after Justin Jefferson’s record-setting contract with the Minnesota Vikings recalibrated the market.
In this week’s “Fact or Fiction,” we delve into the contract predicaments of both Tagovailoa and Chase.
**Dolphins Deliberation: Should Miami wait until 2025 to pay Tua Tagovailoa?**
Considering Tagovailoa’s journey and the high benchmark set by his draft counterparts, there’s a case for the Dolphins to be patient. Unlike quarterbacks like Joe Burrow and Justin Herbert, who have secured extensions averaging $50 million annually due to their ability to single-handedly influence games, Tagovailoa has not yet demonstrated he belongs to this elite cadre or the postseason winners category that includes Goff and Jalen Hurts.
With a record of 1–6 against teams with winning records last year and no playoff victories under his belt, Tagovailoa’s 2023 season, although statistically impressive, hasn’t fully assured the Dolphins of his worth. Waiting until the 2025 offseason could be the prudent path for Miami, allowing for further assessment of Tagovailoa’s potential to lead the team to greater heights.
**Bengals’ Betting Game: Should Cincinnati hurry to sign Ja’Marr Chase?**
Justin Jefferson’s mammoth deal with the Vikings has certainly raised the bar for receivers, potentially making Chase’s negotiation more complex. With Chase still having two years left on his rookie contract, the Bengals find themselves in less of a rush, especially since Jefferson’s records and reputation set a high standard. Chase may be willing to bet on himself for a standout season to command a similar or better deal next year, suggesting the Bengals might not be in a hurry to offer a record-breaking contract just yet.
**Spotlight on Nico Collins: Houston’s Next Andre Johnson?**
Texans’ wide receiver Nico Collins has been drawing comparisons to the legendary Andre Johnson, not just in physique but in play style and potential impact on the game. With Stroud’s endorsement and a promising performance trajectory, Collins, who just secured a three-year, $72.7 million contract extension after a breakthrough season, shows promise of reaching Johnson’s lofty standards.
**Steelers’ Quarterback Quandary: Should Russell Wilson be named starter immediately?**
Despite Russell Wilson being positioned as Pittsburgh’s primary quarterback throughout the offseason, there’s an argument against officially anointing him the starter before training camp. Wilson’s recent underwhelming seasons suggest that introducing competition, especially from Justin Fields, could either reignite his elite form or showcase Fields’ potential as a more viable starting option for the Steelers.
Each of these storylines underscores the complex dynamics of player evaluations and contract negotiations in the NFL, with talent, performance, and potential all in the balance.
