Tua Tagovailoa Ready for Breakout Season, Impresses in Offseason Workouts

Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel says he's confident the upcoming season will be quarterback Tua Tagovailoa's best yet, as he has shown significant growth and development during offseason workouts.

Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa had a standout season in 2023, throwing for 4,624 yards and earning his first career Pro Bowl nod. However, the upcoming 2024 season holds even greater significance, as it is the final year of his rookie contract.

Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel has been highly impressed with Tagovailoa's progress during offseason workouts, commending his growth and development. "He's rising to the challenge within what we ask him to do," McDaniel said.

McDaniel has noticed an improvement in Tagovailoa's arm strength, a result of his offseason training with quarterback coach John Beck. "That connectivity to your game and trying to unearth every single inch and iota of professional development," McDaniel said, "That, in itself, you're heading in the right direction."

Tagovailoa's teammates have also observed his improvements during practice. "He's building up that confidence in himself, and you can just tell," said running back Raheem Mostert.

The 26-year-old quarterback enters a crucial year for his NFL future. The Dolphins exercised the fifth-year option on his rookie contract in March 2023, but negotiations for a new contract are reportedly underway.

This upcoming season will determine whether Tagovailoa can live up to the expectations of the Dolphins and secure a long-term future with the franchise. His impressive performance in offseason workouts bodes well for his chances of success.

McDaniel emphasized that Tagovailoa's offseason focus was not solely on gaining weight, but rather on improving his overall strength and agility. "His strength increased, but he felt like he could have the same amount of strength and kind of reshape his body and be a little lighter on his feet," McDaniel said.

While Tagovailoa has shown significant improvements, McDaniel remains realistic about the challenges ahead. "We're not in the prediction business," McDaniel said. "We just want to see improvement."

Despite the cautious optimism, McDaniel's confidence in Tagovailoa is evident. "For us to expect just as much if not more from year two to year three is very safe for our expectations," McDaniel said.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.