Former Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa greeted by boos in return to Miami

Boo-a Tagovailoa? Miami fans already have.

Tua Tagovailoa’s Miami Dolphins career ended unceremoniously. The 2020 No. 5 overall pick was released by the Dolphins earlier this offseason, ending a tenure that at times was explosive, and other times unstable.

Miami fans are clearly disappointed with the way the working relationship ended, if their cold reception in the Miami heat was any indication. As Tagovailoa and the Falcons took the field on Friday night, a smattering of boos broke out amongst those in attendance.

Tua runs onto the field and gets a loud amount of boos. pic.twitter.com/I44quU6EdR

— Big E (@ian693) August 28, 2026

The moment we all waited for, the crowds reaction to Tua stepping on the field.

And it’s pretty overwhelmingly negative, plenty of boos and the occasional cheer.#PhinsUppic.twitter.com/SpCpeJ8WtK

— Jake Gibson (@JakeTheEmcee) August 28, 2026

Tagovailoa’s exit from Miami was anything but copacetic. The veteran passer said he’d welcome a change of scenery as the season wrapped up, foreshadowing the end of his Dolphins career.

Asked if he is hoping for a “fresh start,” Miami Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa said, “That would be dope. I would be good with it.”

— Joe Schad (@schadjoe) January 5, 2026

The Dolphins, though, remained on the hook for $55 million of Tagovailoa’s contract.

Tagovailoa signed with the Falcons on a one-year deal after Miami chose to release him, immediately entering a quarterback competition with 2024 No. 8 overall selection Michael Penix Jr. Through preseason, Tagovailoa hasn’t had the chance to perform much, tallying just 5 passing attempts (3 completions) for 22 yards vs. the Denver Broncos in Week 2.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Former Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa greeted by boos in return to Miami