Tua Tagovailoa
If the 2023 statistics were the sole criteria for determining quarterback salaries, Miami Dolphins signal-caller Tua Tagovailoa would top the list. As he enters the option year of his rookie deal signed in 2020, Tagovailoa is currently negotiating a contract extension with Dolphins’ GM Chris Grier and senior VP Brandon Shore, aiming for a deal that reflects his elite performance.
The recent contract awarded to Jacksonville Jaguars’ quarterback Trevor Lawrence—a hefty $275 million deal with over $200 million guaranteed—has set a new benchmark. Lawrence, along with Cincinnati Bengals’ Joe Burrow, will earn an average of $55 million per season. With Lawrence’s contract providing more guaranteed money, it technically holds a higher value.
Tagovailoa, hoping to secure a similar or even more lucrative deal, has a strong case based on his impressive 2023 stats. Last season, he led the league with 4,624 passing yards and maintained an exceptional touchdown-to-interception ratio of over 2-to-1. He also spearheaded the Dolphins to their second consecutive playoff appearance and achieved a passer rating of 101.1, the highest among the top candidates. Additionally, Tagovailoa was sacked less frequently than both Goff and Lawrence, despite often playing behind a makeshift offensive line.
In contrast, Lawrence struggled with injuries towards the end of last season, missing critical games as the Jaguars pushed for the playoffs. Although he surpassed 4,000 passing yards, his 21 touchdowns versus 14 interceptions were underwhelming. The Jaguars, who won their division in 2022, failed to make the playoffs last season.
Jared Goff of the Detroit Lions, who finished second to Tagovailoa in total yards and had one more touchdown, led his team to the NFC Championship Game. He recently signed a $53 million per season deal, placing him second only to Burrow in average annual value. Given the market and his performance, Tagovailoa is expected to surpass both Lawrence and Burrow with his forthcoming extension.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Tagovailoa’s extension could be worth around $60 million per season, totaling approximately $300 million, with over $250 million guaranteed. Statistically, Tagovailoa has proven he deserves to be the highest-paid quarterback in the league. While debates on his all-time ranking continue, Grier and Shore must ensure they secure Tagovailoa’s future with a deal that matches his top-tier performance.
Failing to do so could lead to unnecessary turmoil, similar to the situation with the Dallas Cowboys and Dak Prescott. Prescott, likely not receiving a long-term extension, will play 2024 with a significant chip on his shoulder and potentially seek a new team in 2025. The Dolphins must avoid such pitfalls by ensuring Tagovailoa remains a satisfied and well-compensated leader for their franchise.
