MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa spoke to reporters Wednesday for the first time since his postgame comments this past Sunday raised eyebrows following the team’s 29-27 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers.
The defeat dropped Miami to 1-5 on the season as the Dolphins prepare to play the Cleveland Browns (also 1-5) on Sunday.
“I made a mistake and I’m owning up to that right now,” Tagovailoa said. “I talked to the guys and talked to the leaders. They know the intent and my heart was right. The intent can be right, but when things are misconstrued, I got to look at myself as the leader, the protector of the team, and none of that should’ve gotten out.”
Tagovailoa on Sunday suggested that a lack of accountability and leadership might be contributing to the team’s problems, saying some teammates have skipped or arrived late to players-only meetings.
“I think it starts with the leadership and helping articulate that for the guys, and then what we’re expecting out of the guys,” Tagovailoa said after the game. “We’re expecting this. Are we getting that? Are we not getting that? We have guys showing up to player-only meetings late, guys not showing up to player-only meetings. There’s a lot that goes into that.”
On Wednesday, Tagovailoa said his comments were a result of “built-up emotions” and not allowing himself to control them in the moment.
He emphasized that the team’s culture is not an issue, saying players responded well in practice.
“It was frustration, and that can’t happen — especially with the way things are going for our team,” he said. “I can see how it can be misconstrued by the media.”
Tagovailoa mentioned several offensive leaders — including center Aaron Brewer, tackle Austin Jackson, fullback Alec Ingold and running back De’Von Achane — who have helped maintain accountability within the locker room. He also credited Jordyn Brooks and Zach Sieler for their leadership roles.
“Rule number one is protect the team,” he said when it comes to player-only meetings. “I wouldn’t speak on anything that takes away from that.”
Tagovailoa said he’s been impressed with how his teammates have handled adversity during the Dolphins’ rough stretch.
“First and foremost, you get to see who a person really is as they go through the hardships,” Tagovailoa said. “There hasn’t been any bickering or pointing fingers. Guys are just doing their best to win games.”
Local 10 News spoke running back De’Von Achane, linebacker Jaelen Phillips and Bradley Chubb, who showed support for QB1.
Looking ahead, Tagovailoa said the Browns’ defense — led by All-Pro edge rusher Myles Garrett — will be another “big challenge” on Sunday.
The Dolphins will travel to Cleveland on Sunday to face the Browns at Huntington Bank Field.
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