“I'll stand on that”: Ex-Dolphin backs Tua Tagovailoa as the next Drew Brees

Tua Tagovailoa may be one of the NFL’s most scrutinized quarterbacks, but support is coming from a place of experience and credibility. Former Pro Bowl offensive tackle Terron Armstead is standing firm in his belief that Tua isn’t just good—he’s special. As questions swirl around his durability and long-term ceiling, Armstead sees something that critics might be missing: greatness in the making.

Ex-Pro bowler sees Brees-level potential in Tua’s game

On Good Morning Football, Armstead reignited his now-viral comparison between Tagovailoa and NFL icon Drew Brees . “I’ve been very loud in my support of Tua... I may be the one that originated the Drew Brees comparison, and I'll stand on that. I will, I've seen it. I've seen it in close proximity.” The retired lineman, who played with both quarterbacks, believes Tua mirrors Brees in skillset, accuracy, and poise.

🎥 Terron Armstead on Tua Tagovailoa: “I think he’s special, I really do. I’ve been very loud about my support of Tua… I may be the one that originated the Drew Brees comparison, and I’ll stand on that.” (@gmfb) #PhinsUp pic.twitter.com/IgCxTxpVsj

— FinsXtra (@FinsXtra) June 23, 2025

“He led the league in passing yards a couple of years ago, he leads the league in completion percentage every year, those are winning stats,” Armstead added. “I think, even more this year, he takes another step in his leadership, he takes another step in the fourth quarter, two-minute drills... those late-game situations really separate the good from the great. I think it's time.”

From injury setbacks to franchise investment

Since being drafted by the Miami Dolphins in 2020, Tagovailoa’s journey has been filled with highs and setbacks. He missed four games last season due to a third concussion in two years, as Miami finished with an 8–9 record. Yet, the Dolphins have chosen to commit to him long-term, handing him a massive four-year, $214.4 million extension in July 2024—securing his place in the franchise through 2028.

Armstead, who played with Tua for two seasons and announced his retirement in April 2024, saw firsthand how the young quarterback evolved despite adversity. Their partnership resulted in back-to-back playoff appearances, and according to Armstead, that’s just the beginning of what Tua can achieve.

Also read: Tua Tagovailoa faces uncertain future in Miami as Dolphins' faith fades and rebuild rumors grow louder

As Tua prepares for a defining 2024 season, his doubters remain—but so do his believers. With elite numbers, locker room command, and a contract that screams faith, Tagovailoa is ready to prove he’s not just Miami’s present—he’s their future Super Bowl hope.