MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. – Tua Tagovailoa has found a new sense of purpose since signing a four-year contract extension last month. The Miami Dolphins quarterback has credited his improved performance to the positive coaching style of his new head coach, Mike McDaniel.

Tagovailoa expressed how McDaniel’s encouragement and belief in his abilities contrast sharply with the negativity he experienced under former coach Brian Flores. The young quarterback revealed that constant criticism from Flores eroded his confidence and self-belief during his first two seasons in the NFL.

In a recent interview on “The Dan LeBatard Show,” Tagovailoa shared, “To put it in simplest terms, if you woke up every morning and I told you you suck at what you did, that you don’t belong doing what you do, that you shouldn’t be here, that this guy should be here, that you haven’t earned this right. … And then you have somebody else come in and tell you, ‘Dude, you are the best fit for us, you are accurate, you are the best.’ How would it make you feel listening to one or the other?”

Since the coaching change, Tagovailoa has thrived under McDaniel’s leadership. The Dolphins offense saw significant improvement last season, leading the NFL with an average of 401 yards per game. Tagovailoa’s performance also saw a remarkable uptick, throwing for 29 touchdowns and a league-best 4,624 yards.

When asked about Tagovailoa’s comments, Coach McDaniel humbly responded, “I am not spending much time patting myself on the back for much. I think there’s a lot of players that have grown since I’ve been here. And that growth is all that I care about.”

Former Dolphins coach Flores, now with the Minnesota Vikings, is scheduled to speak to the media soon. Despite the controversy, Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell refrained from commenting on the situation, emphasizing the positive relationships Flores has cultivated with his players.

In a league where coaching can make all the difference, Tua Tagovailoa’s story serves as a reminder of the impact of leadership and mentorship in professional sports. As he continues to thrive under the guidance of Coach Mike McDaniel, the quarterback is poised for a bright future in the NFL.

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