Tua Needs To Play A Series Or Two In The First Preseason Game

Tua Needs To Play A Series Or Two In The First Preseason Game

The Miami Dolphins’ joint practice with the Chicago Bears this week was supposed to be another step forward in their preparation for the 2025 season. Instead, it left a lingering bad taste—especially for quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. By most accounts, Tua had a rough day, throwing three interceptions against Chicago’s defense.

One bad practice doesn’t define the season, but it does create the kind of narrative that can stick if not addressed quickly. That’s precisely why Tua needs to get on the field for at least a series or two in the first preseason game.

First, because there is no better way to shake off a poor performance than to go out under the lights, in live action, and execute cleanly, it’s also about proving something to the fans—and maybe even to himself.

Tua has faced questions throughout his career about his durability and decision-making. While the preseason isn’t the time to take unnecessary risks, it is the time to show that he can play smart football. If that means throwing the ball away when nothing’s there, sliding early to avoid a big hit, or even just falling down rather than absorbing a sack, so be it.

These are habits that not only protect the quarterback but can also extend his career.

Another reason he should play the first preseason game is that there are a limited number of preseason games. In the past, when there were four preseason games, most starters sat out the opener. Coaches preferred to give their stars some work in Games 2 and 3, then rest them in the finale.

But with only three games now—and with starters often skipping the last one to stay fresh for Week 1—the first two games take on much greater significance. Those initial live reps at game speed can be the difference between starting the season sharp or needing a few weeks to find rhythm.