Dolphins predicted to trade for Pro Bowler to replace Tua Tagovailoa

The Miami Dolphins need to identify a new head coach. They also might need to identify a new quarterback, as it seems like Tua Tagovailoa’s days in Miami might be numbered, and the San Francisco 49ers might be willing to part with one of theirs, for the right price.

Mac Jones, who made the Pro Bowl in 2021 as a member of the New England Patriots, signed a two-year deal with San Francisco in March of 2025, but he’s resigned to a reserve role behind Brock Purdy, so perhaps the Niners would move him if the Dolphins came calling.

Dolphins predicted to trade for Mac Jones from 49ers 

Matt Johnson of Sportsnaut predicts that the Dolphins will trade for Jones over the offseason given his experience and reasonable price tag.

“Moving on from Tua Tagovailoa will be expensive, creating a salary-cap situation that greatly limits whom the Miami Dolphins can pursue as their starting quarterback in 2026. That is why a Mac Jones trade makes the most sense,” Johnson wrote.

“It would be a return home for the Florida native, with the hope that this stint yields better results than his time with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Jones would join an offense that featured improved offensive line play in 2025, and he would have two excellent weapons in De’Von Achane and Jaylen Waddle. It is a sufficient supporting cast that, with the right offensive play-caller, could allow him to perform well in a contract year.”

Before the Dolphins make a decision regarding their quarterback for next season, and potentially beyond, they’ll probably want to get a head coach in place, as that coach could well want a say in the QB selection process.

But, trading for Jones could be a low-risk, relatively high-reward move for Miami. Jones only has one year remaining on his deal, so acquiring him wouldn’t require a long-term commitment, and he should be highly motivated to perform in a contract year.

If things work well, the Dolphins could bring him back, as he is still just 27 years old. If not, they could cut bait and move on, no big deal.

Of course, this is all hypothetical right now, but the Dolphins will have to do something at quarterback. Perhaps Jones could be an option.

More NFL news: 

• Steelers predicted to trade for Aaron Rodgers replacement over offseason
• Ravens owner doesn't rule out Mike Tomlin as a coaching candidate in Baltimore
• Jalen Hurts aims to end Eagles postseason inconsistencies