Dolphins Keep Tua Despite Waddle Comment, Ewers Debut

Tua Tagovailoa has struggled as the Miami Dolphins fall to 1-6, throwing three interceptions in back-to-back games, completing 12-of-23 for 100 yards in Week 7 and sitting tied for the NFL lead with 10 interceptions. He drew additional controversy after saying his shorter stature limited his ability to target teammate Jaylen Waddle in the Week 7 blowout, a remark that has prompted teammate frustration and renewed trade chatter around Waddle. Despite the on- and off-field issues, head coach Mike McDaniel announced he will keep Tagovailoa as the starting quarterback for Week 8, saying they will review film together and must cut down on turnovers. The decision appears influenced by limited appealing alternatives and Tagovailoa’s $200 million contract, though McDaniel acknowledged the quarterback-coach relationship needs improvement. The Dolphins have promoted rookie Quinn Ewers to primary backup and briefly inserted him late in the Cleveland game, signaling the team is preparing alternatives if struggles continue.