Miami Dolphins general manager Chris Grier addressed ongoing negotiations with star quarterback Tua Tagovailoa regarding a contract extension, expressing a lack of urgency on Tuesday. Grier emphasized that while talks are progressing, there is no set timeline, stating, “When it happens, it happens.” He noted that communications between the team and Tagovailoa’s representation have been positive, indicating a constructive dialogue.
Currently, negotiations have been put on hold due to the approaching NFL draft. Grier assured fans that despite Tagovailoa’s rookie contract expiring after the 2024 season, the team’s focus for the draft will not be on finding a replacement quarterback. He made it clear that quarterback is not a priority in the first round and emphasized the team’s satisfaction with Tagovailoa’s performance and development.
With Tagovailoa’s impressive 2023 season stats, including 4,624 passing yards, 29 touchdowns, a 69.3% completion rate, and only 14 interceptions, coupled with the team’s needs in other positions after offseason departures, selecting a quarterback in the draft would be an unconventional choice. Grier’s remarks suggest that an extension for Tagovailoa is the logical step forward for the Dolphins.
The Miami Dolphins are in ongoing negotiations with Tua Tagovailoa for a contract extension, with no immediate rush to finalize a deal. The team’s focus for the upcoming NFL draft is not on selecting a quarterback, indicating confidence in Tagovailoa as their long-term solution at the position. Given Tagovailoa’s strong performance in the 2023 season and the team’s needs elsewhere, prioritizing an extension for him aligns with the Dolphins’ strategic direction.