Tua Tagovailoa was booed by some Miami Dolphins supporters during his return to Hard Rock Stadium as an Atlanta Falcons quarterback in a pre-season game, highlighting the difficult end to his six-year spell with the team. The article argues that neither side appears clearly better off: Tagovailoa has yet to secure Atlanta’s starting role, while Miami is rebuilding after moving on from a costly contract.

Tagovailoa completed seven of eight passes and helped lead a first-drive touchdown, although a 43-yard gain to Kyle Pitts came largely from the tight end’s run after a short screen pass. He also fumbled a snap, while Falcons running back Brian Robinson lost another fumble; Miami’s defence recovered both despite resting its starters. The Dolphins reportedly still face around $55 million in Tagovailoa salary costs for 2026, while Michael Penix Jr.’s return to full practice adds competition for Atlanta’s quarterback position.