The Miami Dolphins have solidified their stance on quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, signaling that the 2024 season will be his curtain call with the team. Despite a tenure marked by respectable stats, the Dolphins are setting their sights on the University of Alabama’s Jalen Milroe to spearhead their offense starting in 2025, eyeing him as the next face of the franchise.
Tagovailoa, throughout his four-year stint with Miami, compiled an impressive 12,639 passing yards and 81 touchdowns, operating with a 66.9% completion rate. However, these numbers belie the struggles he’s faced, especially under pressure in crucial moments—evident in a lackluster playoff performance against the Kansas City Chiefs where his completion percentage dipped to 51.3%. His time in Miami has been marred by 37 interceptions and 90 sacks, underscoring a tenure that, while solid, has not transcended to the level of game-changing impact the Dolphins require for long-term success.
Critics argue that the Dolphins’ current system under coach Mike McDaniel masks Tagovailoa’s limitations, particularly his arm strength and inability to extend plays with his mobility. This has confined Miami’s offensive strategy to a shorter, more predictable playbook that falters against formidable defenses.
In contrast, Jalen Milroe emerges as a promising successor, boasting a skill set that aligns with the Dolphins’ aspirations for a dynamic and multifaceted offense. Milroe’s tenure at Alabama has been nothing short of impressive, amassing 2,834 passing yards and 23 touchdowns with a commendable control over interceptions, capped at six. His dual-threat capability, evidenced by 531 rushing yards for 12 touchdowns, presents a versatile option for Miami, potentially revitalizing the play action and RPO elements of their offense.
Milroe’s potential for the Dolphins extends beyond his rushing prowess. His arm strength and anticipatory throwing add layers to Miami’s offensive playbook that have been previously underexplored. His ability to manage pressure and exploit defensive gaps with intelligence and athleticism marks him as the Dolphins’ future quarterback, a role for which Tagovailoa, despite his dedication and contributions, appears to be a transitional figure.
As the Dolphins prepare to embrace a new era, the spotlight on Milroe intensifies, highlighting the franchise’s commitment to evolving and competing at the highest level, a vision that, unfortunately for Tagovailoa, will see him passing the torch in 2024.
