Miami Dolphins lock in Tua Tagovailoa with historic NFL deal before 2024 season

Sat Jul 27 02:25:20 IST 2024

Ahead of the 2024 NFL season, Tua Tagovailoa has inked a mega four-year extension with the Miami Dolphins, worth a whopping $212.4 million (£169.2 million).

Tagovailoa, 26, was on the cusp of seeing out his rookie contract which was valued at $23 million (£18.3 million), after enjoying the most successful season of his entire career. His commendable performance paid off as the Dolphins decided to reward him with an annual sum of $53.1 million (£42.8 million) for the next four years, making it the highest ever four-year contract in the history of NFL.

A total of $167 million (£132.9 million) is guaranteed in this ground-breaking contract. The star quarterback took to social media to express his excitement. In a video message posted by GOAT Farm Media, he said, "Hey guys, Tua here. Just wanted to say I've agreed to a contract extension."

He then proceeded to show his gratitude towards Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel for putting faith in him and commended his teammates for their unwavering support. Tagovailoa played a pivotal role in leading the Dolphins to the playoffs last season, with an impressive 11-6 record.

Despite being eliminated by the eventual Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, the exceptional performances didn't go unnoticed. The Dolphins had shown clear-cut faith in Tagovailoa from the start, choosing him with their fifth-overall pick in 2020, following his memorable stint with Alabama where he lost just two games in 24 starts.

The victories have been piling up under Tagovailoa's leadership, recording a 32-19 tally during his time at the Dolphins. His form peaked during the last season where he achieved career highs in passing yards (4,624) and touchdowns (29).

The Dolphins boasted the best offense in the NFL last season, and they have recently upped the ante for 2024 by bringing in experienced wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. The question was never if, but when Tua would sign a new contract. However, as the 2024 season loomed closer, fans began to express their worries.

Just a fortnight ago, teammate Tyreek Hill urged fans to "be patient" with Tagovailoa, and it wasn't long before the deal was sealed. Tagovailoa was nearing the end of his $23 million rookie contract, but his new agreement sees him pocket nearly ten times that amount.

"Both sides know that they need each other. Miami Dolphins knows that he's QB1 and Tua knows that he wants to stay in Miami so just stay patient," Hill commented on July 12. "Whenever it's time, it's time."

Hill later expressed that Tagovailoa deserved to be the top-earning quarterback in the league, although he believed that the 26 year old would consider his teammates. "Everybody is going to be happy. Tua is not a very selfish guy he loves his team, loves his teammates, and wants to keep all the guys together," he stated.

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"He understands that if he signs a deal that's friendly, he will be able to keep a lot of people around." That said, Hill added: "I'm hoping he becomes the highest paid though, because he deserves it. If you understand where Tua's come from, from his time getting drafted to now, just his whole path and everything he has overcome. It's one of those Cinderella stories."

Things are looking up for the Miami Dolphins as Tua Tagovailoa can breathe easy with his contract sorted, ready to spearhead a dazzling offense once more. Adding to the positive vibes, Hill has made it clear he's in it for the long haul in Miami, eager to continue his dynamic wide receiver duo with Jaylen Waddle and excited to welcome Odell Beckham Jr. into the mix.

"I just told my agent 'Look, don't get me traded this time' as I don't wanna leave Miami," Hill expressed. "I love Miami. So whatever it takes, I'm very content with where I am right now. I love the team, I love the head coach, I love the organization. I know it's gonna happen."

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