Miami Dolphins Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa Responds To Criticism From Former NFL MVP
Alright, let’s talk about Tua Tagovailoa. It seems the Miami Dolphins’ quarterback has had just about enough of the armchair QBs, especially the ones who used to be actual QBs. When former NFL MVP Cam Newton decided to chime in on Tua’s performance relative to his massive new contract, Tua didn’t just let it slide. He fired back, and frankly, it’s the kind of spice we live for. What did the Dolphins QB have to say?
What Led To This War Of Words?
Newton, holding court on ESPN, basically said that for the kind of money Tagovailoa is making, a cool $212.1 million over four years, he should be playing like a man possessed. Newton pointed out that Tagovailoa has a “Ferrari and a Lamborghini” in his receiving corps and that with more money comes more expectations. It’s a fair point from a guy who once carried a team to the Super Bowl on his back.
But Tagovailoa wasn’t having it. In a press conference, he essentially threw down the gauntlet to all the critics. “Well, anybody can play quarterback in this league, then,” he shot back. “I want to see anybody off the streets come and play quarterback.” You can almost hear the sarcasm dripping from his voice. It’s the classic “easier said than done” defense, with a little extra salt.
Tagovailoa: The Clicker is Easier Than the Huddle
Tua Tagovailoa on recent criticism (primarily from Cam Newton)
“I want to see anybody on the streets come play QB. Cam is doing his thing, but I think it’s easier to hold a clicker and talk about what someone else is doing wrong when you’re not out there having to do the same.” pic.twitter.com/QkABWNDp0d
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) September 25, 2025
Tagovailoa didn’t stop there. He took a direct jab at the media punditry, a role Newton has recently embraced. “I think it’s easier to be able to hold a clicker and talk about it,” Tagovailoa said, painting a vivid picture of Newton breaking down film from a comfy studio chair. The implication is clear: it’s one thing to talk the talk, but it’s another thing entirely to walk the walk with a 300-pound defensive end breathing down your neck. He’s right; playing quarterback in the NFL isn’t exactly a walk in the park. It’s arguably the toughest job in all of sports.
Can Tua Silence the Critics?
Let’s be real, the Dolphins‘ 0-3 start isn’t helping Tua’s case. Late-game struggles have been a theme, and with five touchdowns to four interceptions, the stats aren’t exactly screaming “elite.” Even Tagovailoa himself admitted he hasn’t played “anywhere near” his full potential. But his coach, Mike McDaniel, is standing by his guy, praising his focus and commitment to improving.
This whole saga adds another layer of drama to the Dolphins’ season. Now, all eyes are on Tagovailoa to see if he can back up his words. He gets his first chance to quiet the noise on “Monday Night Football” against the equally struggling New York Jets. A big performance there won’t just be a win for the Dolphins; it’ll be a personal victory for a quarterback tired of being told how to do his job by the guys holding the clickers.
