Tua Tagovailoa’s journey in the NFL hasn’t been smooth sailing. Over his four years with the Miami Dolphins, he’s encountered significant challenges that have influenced his performance on the field. However, in 2023, glimpses of his immense talent emerged as he topped the league with 4,624 passing yards.

The pattern of the previous year repeated itself as the Dolphins began the season strongly only to falter later on. What initially seemed like a promising shot at the Super Bowl ended in disappointment with a premature exit from the playoffs in the first round.

The Dolphins found themselves at a crossroads regarding their quarterback’s future after a notable season where Tua Tagovailoa showcased his skills, albeit without securing a playoff victory. While his performance was impressive, the lack of a postseason win somewhat dampened his case for a lucrative contract extension.

However, recognizing the pivotal role quarterbacks play in football, the Dolphins are eager to solidify their position with Tagovailoa. Despite the absence of a playoff breakthrough, they see him as a valuable asset worth investing in. Consequently, they’ve agreed to a one-year deal worth around $23 million for the 2024 season, indicating their short-term commitment.

Nevertheless, discussions for a long-term contract have commenced between the team and Tagovailoa. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler disclosed that negotiations have begun earnestly, with both sides engaging in talks to find common ground. While a deal during this offseason isn’t guaranteed, the seriousness displayed by both parties suggests a concerted effort to reach an agreement.

Spotrac’s projections hint at a substantial four-year contract worth $198 million for Tagovailoa, equating to an annual average of $49.6 million. If materialized, this would position him as the fifth-highest paid quarterback in the league, trailing behind Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, Lamar Jackson, and Jalen Hurts.