The Dolphins and Tua Tagovailoa have kicked off extension talks. Common supervisor Chris Grier instructed NFL Community’s Cameron Wolfe that the 2 sides have engaged in constructive and “ongoing” discussions surrounding a brand new contract.
With the previous first-round decide set to enter the ultimate yr of his rookie contract, an extension had been described as probably the most “consequential matter” in Miami. The final we heard, an settlement wasn’t imminent and there was “no rush” to finalize a deal. Certainly, Grier confirmed there’s no deadline on extension talks, with each side understanding that the present focus is on the draft.
Nevertheless, there have been rumblings earlier this offseason that each the Dolphins and Tagovailoa’s camp had been hoping for fast negotiations. There was a normal sentiment that everyone needed to keep away from “a storyline that hangs over coaching camp or the common season.” The 2 sides can nonetheless accomplish that objective; when the draft ends subsequent weekend, there’ll nonetheless be three months till the beginning of coaching camp.
Each the Dolphins and Tagovailoa have publicly endorsed a long-term deal. Whereas the participant’s well being and the rising price of QB contracts will complicate negotiations, it’s gave the impression of the 2 sides have typically been on the identical web page. Certainly, Wolfe notes that the Dolphins are getting ready for a Tagovailoa-led future through this yr’s draft, with the staff probably focusing on offensive linemen with their two top-100 picks.
Tagovailoa has been working this offseason to repeat a standout 2023 marketing campaign that noticed him keep wholesome for the primary time in his profession. Wolfe notes that the QB has dropped his weight right down to 220 kilos, a lower from his 235-pound enjoying weight final yr.
