Tua ignoring criticism of arm strength following season-opening win

Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa believes that his opening-week performance should silence detractors.

“I don’t care,” Tagovailoa said Wednesday when asked if people still doubted his throwing power, according to the Miami Herald’s Daniel Oyefusi. “466. That’s what 466 is if I can’t throw deep.”

Tagovailoa delivered a dazzling display, completing 28 of 45 pass attempts for 466 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. The fourth-year standout was named the AFC’s Offensive Player of the Week for the second time in his career.

But the 25-year-old was more than willing to share the limelight with his teammates in a “good team win.” Tagovailoa credited his blockers, receivers, running backs, and Miami’s defense in securing a thrilling 36-34 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers in its season opener.

While the Dolphins signal-caller appreciates earning a win in the opener, he also understands there tend to be overreactions after Week 1. Tagovailoa recognizes that the Dolphins have 16 games remaining against really good teams.

“You’re either going to win the Super Bowl after you win your first game, or you’re the worst team ever and everything that comes with that,” he said.

The Alabama alum was scrutinized after he was accused of not working out or following recommendations from the team’s nutritionist during the offseason. Tagovailoa made changes to his regimen after suffering at least two concussions during his 2022 campaign. He led the NFL with a 105.5 passer rating last year before he was sidelined for the final two games of the regular season and missed Miami’s wild-card round game against the Buffalo Bills.

The Dolphins will take on the New England Patriots on Sunday Night Football in Week 2.

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