Dolphins' Raheem Mostert says he didn't throw shade at 49ers, Jimmy Garoppolo

"The initial report was specifically talking about Tua and his success," Mostert explained during a Tuesday appearance on San Francisco radio station KNBR, per David Bonilla of 49ers WebZone. "So when I was being asked those questions, I was looking at it as a view of what Tua has done and what Tua had dealt with in the past."

Specifically, Mostert said he was referencing criticisms of Tagovailoa that existed before the signal-caller's breakout 2022 season. 

"I don't know why people are doubting [Tagovailoa] and his ability, [and I wasn't saying] that Jimmy G can't sling the rock or anything like that," Mostert added. "I would never, ever in a million years talk down on a player, specifically a guy like Jimmy, just because we've grown together all those years when I was there. My family is his family. His family is like my family."

As for the "more talent" comment, Mostert insisted he meant that the Dolphins "have more talent here, right now, at this moment, than what has been here in the past." The 30-year-old then went on to praise Miami's upcoming opponents. 

"Come on, I was with the Niners for several years, and I know exactly what the talent is," he said. "There's unbelievable talent on both sides of the ball, and even on special teams, so I wasn't trying to take shots or digs on anyone." 

Mostert featured for the 49ers from a portion of the 2016 campaign through last season before he signed with Miami this past March. 

He'll see some familiar faces who may not greet him with open arms when the 8-3 Dolphins play at the 7-4 49ers this coming Sunday.