NFL

NFL News: Mike McDaniel confirms Tua Tagovailoa, Dolphins will continue to miss two star players

According to Mike McDaniel, Tua Tagovailoa will not be able to count on two Miami Dolphins stars in preparation for a new NFL season.

Tua Tagovailoa #1 of the Miami Dolphins warms up before playing the San Francisco 49ers at Hard Rock Stadium on December 22, 2024 in Miami Gardens, Florida.
© Megan Briggs/Getty ImagesTua Tagovailoa #1 of the Miami Dolphins warms up before playing the San Francisco 49ers at Hard Rock Stadium on December 22, 2024 in Miami Gardens, Florida.

Tua Tagovailoa’s Miami Dolphins are excited about what could happen in the upcoming NFL season, despite the constant changes. Head Coach Mike McDaniel plans to carry out his game with the highest potential possible, although he knows that two of his star players may likely be unavailable.

According to the latest reports, two key players from the South Florida team will likely not be available to the coaching staff at mandatory minicamp, each due to different circumstances. Jonnu Smith has yet to resolve his contract situation, while Jalen Ramsey has repeatedly made it clear that he wants to be traded.

The news was reported by NFL insider Cameron Wolfe, who, through his official X account (formerly Twitter), echoed the absences of both the tight end and the cornerback.

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“Dolphins TE Jonnu Smith and CB Jalen Ramsey will not be at mandatory minicamp this week, HC Mike McDaniel said. Smith wants a new contract. Ramsey and Dolphins are seeking a trade split,” the insider reported via @CameronWolfe.

Jonnu Smith Tua Tagovailoa Miami Dolphins

Jonnu Smith #9 and Tua Tagovailoa #1 of the Miami Dolphins celebrate after scoring a touchdown in the fourth quarter against the Las Vegas Raiders at Hard Rock Stadium on November 17, 2024 in Miami Gardens, Florida.

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The objective: Avoiding roster breakdown

Mike McDaniel will have the difficult task of assembling a roster capable of competing with their rivals, starting with the AFC East. With the certainty of keeping Tua Tagovailoa as the starting quarterback, it remains to be seen what will ultimately happen with both Smith and Ramsey.

Dolphins star Jalen Ramsey makes major decision that could hint at his NFL future

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While the situation with the veteran cornerback is a bit more complex due to his repeated statements expressing a desire to leave, the tight end has a better chance of staying if his contract situation can be resolved.

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If he stays with the Dolphins, Smith will be a key piece in the offense, bringing both experience and explosiveness. For now, Tyreek Hill appears to be Tua’s most important target heading into what lies ahead.

Miami’s first challenges

  • @ Indianapolis Colts, September 7th
  • vs New England Patriots, September 14th
  • @ Buffalo Bills, September 18th
  • vs New York Jets, September 29th
  • @ Carolina Panthers, October 5th
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