Miami’s 31-6 loss against Cleveland might have done more than dent their record. It could affect their quarterback’s future. After the defeat, head coach Mike McDaniel didn’t shield his starter. His tone suggested the once-unquestioned trust in Tua Tagovailoa is now hanging by a thread.
> “If you are negatively affecting the football team routinely, I don’t have a choice but to assess a different player,” McDaniel said.
While the coach didn’t say anything directly, it seems he hinted at the QB change, and moreover, Tua himself is upset with his performance
Tua Tagovailoa Benched as Dolphins’ Struggles Push McDaniel to the Brink
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sep 29, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA;Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) walks off the field after the game against the New York Jets at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Miami’s offense looked off against Cleveland. The Dolphins have 219 yards and one third-down conversion in 13 attempts. Tua Tagovailoa was pulled late after throwing three interceptions and losing a fumble, which is his worst outing since entering the league. Moreover, he was benched for Week 7 for Quinn Ewers. Later, they lost 31-6 to Cleveland.
Afterwards, Tua admits he is not satisfied with his performance. He accepted the blame:
> “_Not happy. Not proud of where I am with my play. Considering how I’ve approached things this year. I have to be better.”Tua said_
That honesty revealed McDaniel’s frustration. Both know the situation has hit a breaking point. At 1-6, Miami is slipping out of contention, and McDaniel’s “no choice” remark sounds less like motivation and more like a reality check that a change under centre might be following.
With rookie Quinn Ewers waiting in the wings, the Dolphins’ next decision could decide their season and Tua’s future in Miami. The sixth-year QB signed a four-year, $212 million contract extension back in 2024, making him the sixth-highest-paid quarterback in the league. But Tua is struggling to play just like it. And to make matters worse, McDaniel’s coaching seat is already starting to feel the heat.
As the head coach stance came into fans notice, many fans reacted with mixed reaction:
> A fan said,” Is MikeMcDaniel gonna be benched too?”
>
> Another said,” 😭I see why Ramsey wanted out.”
>
> Others stated, “Brian Flores was right.”
>
> One chimed, “ Stop hitting the pen coach, lol.”
>
> Others commented,” Tua ain’t being benched 😂.”
McDaniel’s patience is fading, and Tua’s time might be too.