Miami Dolphins bench QB Tagovailoa

Why it matters: The move calls into question what the Fins will do with Tagovailoa next season. He's guaranteed $54 million next year, and on March 15, $3 million of his 2027 salary will become guaranteed, ESPN reported.

• If Miami releases him next year, the team will face a $99 million dead cap charge which limits the team's spending ability on other players.

State of play: The announcement comes after the Dolphins lost to the Pittsburgh Steelers, 28-15 Monday, eliminating them from playoff contention.

• Tagovailoa threw for just 65 yards through the first three quarters. He finished with 253 yards and an interception.

Catch up quick: The quarterback signed a four-year, $212.1 million extension in 2024 following a standout season in 2023 where he led the league in passing yards.

• This season, though, he's thrown a league-high 15 interceptions and his Quarterback Rating is 30th in the league.

What we're watching: The Dolphins' decision on Tagovailoa's role for the rest of this season and in 2026.