American · Ewa Beach, Hawaii · Born 2 March 1998Tua Tagovailoa is the Miami Dolphins' starting quarterback, known for his accuracy and quick release since being drafted out of Alabama in 2020.
Tuanigamanuolepola "Tua" Tagovailoa was born on 2 March 1998 in ʻEwa Beach, Hawaii, the eldest of four children of Samoan parents Galu, a pastor, and Diane Tagovailoa, and trained by his father to throw left-handed despite being naturally right-handed. His younger brother, Taulia, also became a college and professional quarterback. Tagovailoa starred at Saint Louis School in Honolulu before committing to Alabama, where as a true freshman he came off the bench to throw the game-winning touchdown in overtime of the 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship, being named the game's Offensive MVP. The Miami Dolphins selected Tagovailoa fifth overall in the 2020 NFL Draft after a hip injury cut short his junior season, and he became the team's full-time starter in 2021, leading the league in passing yards in 2023. Tagovailoa's Miami tenure was frequently interrupted by concussions, and he was released by the Dolphins in March 2026, signing with the Atlanta Falcons that year and continuing his NFL career while remaining a prominent Polynesian representative in the league, having established a charitable foundation supporting youth and health initiatives.
Miami Dolphins quarterback and former Alabama national champion
How They Played
Accurate pocket passer with quick release, excellent touch on intermediate routes, mobile when healthy
Lasting Impact
First left-handed quarterback to win CFP National Championship, established Dolphins as playoff contender
Career Honours
- 1x Pro Bowl
- NFL passing yards leader (2023)
| Team | Period | Fee | Games |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami Dolphins | 2020–2024 | 5th overall pick, 2020 NFL Draft | 64 |
| Alabama Crimson Tide | 2017–2019 | — | 40 |
| Atlanta Falcons | 2025–2025 | 1-year, $1.3M (free agent) | 14 |
American Athletes