Dolphins Hire Jon-Eric Sullivan as GM: What's Next for Miami's Coaching Search and Tua Tagovailoa's Future?

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The Miami Dolphins have appointed Jon-Eric Sullivan as their new general manager. Sullivan, a 22-year veteran of the Green Bay Packers, will oversee the search for a new head coach following Mike McDaniel's departure. This move comes as the Dolphins look to revitalize their team after missing the playoffs for the second consecutive season. Sullivan's extensive experience with the Packers, where he rose from a scouting intern to Vice President of Player Personnel, has prepared him for this role. During his tenure, the Packers made the playoffs in three out of the last four seasons. As the Dolphins search for a new head coach, names like John Harbaugh, Jeff Hafley, and Mike McCarthy have emerged as potential candidates. Notably, all three have a connection with Sullivan, who will play a crucial role in the hiring process. However, the Dolphins also face a pressing issue with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. After a decline in performance last season, Tagovailoa was benched for the final three games. His poor play resulted in 15 interceptions, a career high, and a significant decline in accuracy and mobility. Tagovailoa is guaranteed $54 million for 2026, and releasing him next year would result in a $99 million dead cap charge. The Dolphins must carefully weigh their options for Tagovailoa's future, considering the significant financial implications of releasing him. The team would incur a $99 million dead cap charge if they release him before June 1, but designating the move as a post-June 1 release would split the charges over two years, resulting in a $67.4 million cap hit in 2026 and $31.8 million in 2027.