Tagovailoa’s Unhappy Reunion with Dolphins as Falcons

Tua Tagovailoa Returns to South Florida

Tua Tagovailoa’s comeback to South Florida, where he faced his old team, the Miami Dolphins, as an Atlanta Falcon was less than joyful. It was dysfunctional. Over six seasons, Tagovailoa and the Dolphins attempted to succeed together but ultimately failed.

The Dolphins have made it clear they won’t rebuild, signalling higher expectations. In a preseason game on August 28, 2026, at Miami Gardens, Florida, Tagovailoa and Falcons’ offensive lineman Ryan Neuzil jogged onto the field. Despite high hopes, Tagovailoa was hampered by coaches who didn’t favor him and injuries that hindered his career aspirations to become the Dolphins’ franchise face.

The Dolphins never achieved the championship level they anticipated upon drafting Tagovailoa in the top five in 2020. His struggles led to separation during the offseason, making this exhibition game at Hard Rock Stadium the first encounter since their split. Although both sides think they are better off, neither has benefited yet.

Tagovailoa’s Struggle in Atlanta

Tagovailoa is striving for a starting position with the Falcons, yet he hasn’t secured the role, indicating the challenges he faced since training camp began. His main competition, Michael Penix Jr., has only been partly participating recovering from a 2025 knee surgery. Still, Tagovailoa hasn’t solidified his position despite Penix Jr.’s absence.

Regardless of the $55 million salary owed in 2026, the Dolphins chose to part ways with Tagovailoa as part of a strategic divestment to resolve a salary cap dilemma. The Dolphins, with quarterback Malik Willis and head coach Jeff Hafley, enter a rebuilding phase that heightens their challenges.

The current Miami lineup isn’t strong, marking yet another rebuilding chapter. In the matchup between a rebuilding team and a quarterback struggling for recognition, emotions ran high as fans expressed disappointment towards the quarterback once seen as their potential championship leader.

Match Night Struggle

Tagovailoa performed decently, completing 7 of 8 passes, yet his gameplay remained unimpressive. The Dolphins played with backup players, lacking the depth necessary for the upcoming season, and Tagovailoa’s performances against underwhelming opponents were equally lacking.

During the game, Tagovailoa completed 3 of 4 passes on his first drive, missing only on a throwaway. A Falcons touchdown was scored, but success seemed deceptive, highlighted by a short screen pass to Kyle Pitts that Pitts turned into a notable gain.

Misfortunes included Tagovailoa fumbling a snap and later mishandling a drive resulting in Miami recovering the ball. The Dolphins’ defense showed recovery strength, but expectations suggest they face heavy challenges in the regular season.

Despite Tagovailoa’s attempts, the Falcons’ starting quarterback role remains unattained, further challenged as Penix Jr. returns to practice. Both Tagovailoa and the Dolphins face uncertainties.

For more insights by Armando Salguero, follow him on X @ARMANDOSALGUERO. Armando Salguero is OutKick’s Senior NFL Writer.