Miami Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa sits out of practice as he seeks contract extension

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. – Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa dressed the part but opted not to practice on Day 2 of the team’s training camp Thursday.

According to NFL insider Cameron Wolfe, Miami’s defense ended up dominating Thursday’s practice without Tagovailoa taking the field.

Wolfe said cornerback Kendall Fuller, defensive end Calais Campbell, tight end Jonnu Smith, and tackle Terron Armstead also missed practice, but not for contract-related reasons.

Although Tagovailoa was able to get some practice time in on Wednesday, but he didn’t speak with reporters on either day.

Dolphins tackle Austin Jackson didn’t hold back when speaking about the offense’s productivity without Tagovailoa on the field Thursday.

Pro Bowl wide receiver Tyreek Hill shared thoughts of his quarterback Wednesday as they both look for new deals.

“He’s very excited to be back in the building with all of the guys,” Hill said. “It’s great to see him out there. Still coming into work. It’s still about his business without having the deal done. It just has been awesome having him around.”

Thanks to a productive and injury-free 2023 season, Tagovailoa improved his negotiating leverage for the coveted deal. Tagovailoa threw for 29 touchdowns and a league-best 4,624 yards.

“I think Tua is very well deserving of the opportunity to get a contract extension,” running back Raheem Mostert said. “He’s worked his tail off since I’ve started playing with him. The leadership that he portrays, not only for the team, but for the organization, is definitely top-notch.”

The Fins are still seeking their first playoff win since 2000 and are aware of critics pointing out their failures in crucial games.

Head coach Mike McDaniel addressed these criticisms, stating that the team needs to prove their detractors wrong by focusing on winning games down the stretch and in the playoffs.

“You don’t win football games down the stretch, you don’t win playoff games, and you don’t win Super Bowls, those things will be said,” McDaniel said. “The challenge is understanding what is being said and actually doing something about it. If we want to finish the season right, let’s step out on that field and finish today, then build on that the next day.”

The Dolphins will have their first public practice on Sunday at Baptist Health Training Complex at 10:30 a.m.

CLICK HERE for more information on their full 2024 training camp schedule.

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