Dolphins exploring trade options for Tagovailoa, Cardinals considering similar move for Murray

The Miami Dolphins and Arizona Cardinals are both actively exploring trade options for their starting quarterbacks, Tua Tagovailoa and Kyler Murray, amid significant financial hurdles.

Why it matters: This situation underscores the complexities of NFL contracts and the evolving dynamics of quarterback play in the league. As teams navigate salary caps and performance expectations, the futures of these two talented but troubled signal-callers hang in the balance.

What’s new: Both franchises are contemplating trades that could reshape their respective rosters.

• The Dolphins have indicated a willingness to part ways with Tagovailoa, who is owed $54 million guaranteed in 2026, while the Cardinals are similarly weighing the potential benefits of trading Murray, despite his hefty contract obligations.

By the numbers: Financial implications play a crucial role in assessing these players' market values.

• For Tagovailoa, cutting ties would result in an unprecedented $99 million dead money cap charge, while Murray's release before June 1 would incur a $54.7 million dead cap hit.
• Conversely, trading Murray could create $34.7 million in cap savings for the Cardinals.

Yes, but: Concerns surround the on-field performances of both quarterbacks, complicating trade negotiations.

• Tagovailoa threw a career-high 15 interceptions last season and failed to surpass 200 passing yards in eight of the 14 games he played. Meanwhile, Murray's struggles with injury limited him to just five games last season.

What to watch: The upcoming months will provide critical insight into the decisions both teams make regarding their quarterbacks.

• With both Tagovailoa and Murray expressing openness to change, their futures remain uncertain as internal evaluations continue amidst external trade discussions.

What’s next: The Dolphins and Cardinals must balance financial considerations with their long-term plans.

• Miami general manager Chris Grier and Arizona’s Steve Keim face pivotal decisions that could set the course for their franchises for years to come.

The bottom line: As both the Dolphins and Cardinals assess their quarterback situations, the interplay between contractual obligations and performance metrics will be essential in determining whether Tagovailoa or Murray remains with their respective teams or finds new homes in the NFL.