Tua Tagovailoa’s concussion suffered against the Buffalo Bills, the third documented concussion of his career, raises significant questions about the Miami Dolphins quarterback’s football future.
Following Tagovailoa’s latest concussion, suffered on what was seemingly a routine tackle by Bills defensive back Damar Hamlin, there have been calls from across the NFL landscape for the 26-year-old to retire given the potential long-term ramifications for his health given so many repeated concussions.
What Happens to Tua Tagovailoa’s Contract if Miami Dolphins QB Retires?
Given that Tagovailoa and the Dolphins just agreed to terms on a $212 million contract prior to the season, there are legitimate financial ramifications both for Tagovailoa and the Dolphins should he in fact decide to retire.
Spotrac outlined how Tagovailoa’s contract — and his $167 million injury guarantee would be handled, should he decide to walk away.
“While a full recovery is the only real focus here, in response to questions regarding Tua Tagovailoa’s contract:
The deal includes $167M guaranteed for injury, $43M of which has been paid in 2024.
If he’s medically cleared to return to football, but opts to retire, he will forego the remaining $124M guaranteed (barring a custom settlement).
If he’s medically forced into retirement, he has a right to collect the $124M remaining.
The other side of this equation gets a little tougher. If Tua is able to pass a physical next March, the Dolphins will have the ability to release him, with “only” his $50M of 2025 compensation on the hook.
Tua’s 2026 compensation ($54M) becomes fully guaranteed on March 14th.
A Post 6/1 release prior to this means $83.6M of dead cap across 2025/2026.
For Tagovailoa, this is as complicated a situation as one could imagine, and it remains to be seen if he is even considering stepping away from the game. But, the financial ramifications and his long-term health as well as the risks associated with the potential of compounding the damage caused by future concussions all must be factored into any final decision he may make.
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