Tua Tagovailoa in attendance for Dolphins’ OTAs

The extension-eligible Dolphins quarterback is indeed present for the opening of OTAs, however, per Dianna Russini of The Athletic. Tagovailoa had previously stated an intention of taking part in the final phase of Miami’s offseason program, so the news comes as little surprise. It also makes it likely the 26-year-old will take part in mandatory minicamp next month.

Tagovailoa skipped most of the Dolphins’ previous offseason workouts, and it was reported last week that decision was tied to the fact he has not landed an extension. All activities prior to minicamp and training camp in July are voluntary, and an absence from the latter in particular would be more noteworthy. Tagovailoa’s attendance at OTAs is a positive sign on the contract front as talks continue. A second NFL pact will be among the most lucrative in the league, something evidenced by the team’s efforts to secure Tagovailoa for the long term.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported during a Sunday SportsCenter appearance, via Tyler Conway of Bleacher Report, that the Dolphins have made at least one offer so far. The fact the former No. 5 pick skipped out on most voluntary workouts is a sign that offer was rejected. Especially with respect to QB mega-deals, negotiations are a back and forth process, and plenty of time remains for an agreement to be reached. Tagovailoa is under contract for 2024 on his fifth-year option, valued at $23.17M.

A long-term accord could very well reach the $50M-per-year mark, something which is currently true of five deals. Jared Goff inked a Lions extension averaging $53M per season last week, and that places him in second in the pecking order as things stand. 2021 first overall pick Trevor Lawrence is expected to at least approach the top of the market with his Jaguars extension.

Agent Drew Rosenhaus, who represents a number of Dolphins players but not Tagovailoa himself, notes, via Josh Moser, that there is a sentiment inside the organization and around the league an extension will be worked out no later than training camp. Tagovailoa’s attendance is an encouraging sign on that front, and the progress of contract talks will remain a storyline to follow closely.