The unfolding drama between Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and former head coach Brian Flores continues to captivate the NFL world. Tagovailoa’s recent candid remarks about his experiences with Flores have prompted intense scrutiny, fueling an intriguing narrative that bridges past decisions and current dynamics in Miami.
Tagovailoa, who was picked fifth overall in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Dolphins, has openly criticized his former coach. “To put it in the simplest terms, if you woke up every morning and I told you that you suck at what you did, that you don't belong doing what you do, that you shouldn't be here... How would it make you feel listening to one or the other?” he stated, revealing a tumultuous relationship with Flores.
Draft Day Decisions
During the 2020 NFL Draft, there were whispers that Flores preferred Justin Herbert over Tagovailoa. Ultimately, Dolphins GM Chris Grier made the decision to draft Tagovailoa, while Herbert was picked by the Los Angeles Chargers. This choice has been a point of contention, especially given Herbert's immediate success and Tagovailoa’s delayed start.
Tagovailoa didn’t see NFL action until Week 6 of the 2020 season in a matchup against the New York Jets, and by Week 8, he was starting against the Los Angeles Rams. However, Flores’ decisions to substitute veteran quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick for Tagovailoa during key moments, such as the fourth quarter of a Week 11 game against the Denver Broncos and again in Week 16 against the Las Vegas Raiders, only added to the internal discord.
The Brian Flores Tenure
Under Flores, the Dolphins showed interest in trading for Deshaun Watson during the 2021 season, further destabilizing Tagovailoa’s standing. Flores' tenure with the Dolphins ended in January 2022 after a 9-8 season, and he has since taken on a new role as a linebackers coach with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Reflecting on his time with the Dolphins, Flores commented, “Look, I'm human. So that hit me in a way that wasn't positive for me. But at the same time, I've got to use that and say, 'Hey, how can I grow from that? How can I be better?'” This introspection highlights his attempt to move forward despite the controversy.
A New Chapter Under Mike McDaniel
Following Flores' departure, Mike McDaniel was named the new head coach. McDaniel immediately established a rapport with Tagovailoa, offering a fresh start. “We're gonna have an extensive professional relationship, my man... my job is to coach you to get all that greatness out of you,” McDaniel assured his quarterback. McDaniel’s supportive approach has been a stark contrast to the previous regime.
Under McDaniel’s guidance, Tagovailoa thrived. In the 2022 season, he led the NFL in passer rating and followed up with leading in passing yards in 2023, culminating in his first Pro Bowl selection. Tagovailoa praised the changes, noting, “I just feel like there are so many things that have happened. There are a lot of changes, and a lot of good changes… the locker room feels different.”
Support and Success
Tagovailoa emphasized the importance of backing from his coach, saying, “I think support for any of us as players means a lot. We understand that the NFL is a tough industry... But to be able to have support of the head coach, the head guy, that should tell you a lot.” With McDaniel at the helm, the Dolphins' rejuvenated environment has paved the way for their young quarterback’s success.
This evolving story of professional relationships, draft decisions, and the quest for NFL success underscores the complex, high-stakes nature of football at its highest level. The Tagovailoa-Flores saga is a reminder that behind every on-field snapshot, there is a backdrop of human emotion, ambition, and contention that often shapes the game more than the Xs and Os. As Tagovailoa continues to develop under McDaniel’s watchful eye, the Dolphins’ quarterback and his team look to forge ahead, leaving the past controversies behind.