The Miami Dolphins need to get a starting quarterback in the 2026 offseason after deciding to release Tua Tagovailoa. While he adds to the QB free-agent pool, the Dolphins will need to make a splash to sign a veteran bridge option.
Miami could think about taking a quarterback at No. 11 overall in the NFL draft, but it already is young at the position with Quinn Ewers, Zach Wilson and Cam Miller left on its post-Tagovailoa depth chart.
Here's the latest on the Dolphins' five best options on the open market:
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Dolphins' latest free-agent quarterback rumors
Malik Willis
Willis has a connection with the Dolphins' coaching staff, led by their head coach, former Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley. The Dolphins' new GM, Jon-Eric Sullivan, is also a former Packers player personnel executive. It's another 49ers adjacent offense that would help Willis succeed. But the Cardinals and Browns, for now, seem to plan on being more aggressive and lucrative in their pursuit of Willis.
MORE:Why Dolphins released Tua Tagovailoa ahead of 2026 free agency
Kyler Murray
The released Cardinal is looking for a new team to start. The Jets and Vikings are battling as the top suitors but the Dolphins are also in play. There's no J.J. McCarthy to compete with Murray in Miami, and Miami might be seen as a more competent franchise than New York. The Dolphins would seem like No. 3 on Murray's depth chart, which can change in a hurry should Willis not go to Arizona.
MORE:Ranking Kyler Murray's best fits in free agency
Geno Smith
The 35-year-old former Jet, Seahawk and Raider, released from Las Vegas, has wanted to play in Miami and return to the AFC East. He might be a rather cheap option to start on a one-year deal.
Jimmy Garoppolo
Garoppolo has experience with new offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, a former 49ers assistant during Garoppolo's tenure as their starting QB. There would be little to no learning curve for the 34-year-old.
MORE:Why Dolphins are on the hook for $99 million after Tua Tagovailoa release
Marcus Mariota
The Dolphins are also considering Mariota, who, like Tagovailoa, is a proud product of Saint Louis High School in Honolulu. Mariota would bring some veteran stability and set up the Dolphins well to mentor a young drafted QB in 2026.