The difference between the fans and the fanatics is straightforward. Fans are all in for nostalgia and second chances. Don’t expect none of that from the fanatics. You mess up, you clean. No two ways. And certainly, no hampering the present. Especially when your team’s gone 8-9 the previous season. Their expectations? Just prep the entire offseason to make it the next one bearable to watch. So, when Tua Tagovailoa hit the screens with a ‘dad-bod,’ enjoying life, they were on his case.

Because apparently, even NFL quarterbacks can’t enjoy a beer without the internet exploding.

It all started when a video surfaced of Tua, shirtless and carefree, living his best off-season life on a boat with family and friends. The Dolphins QB was soaking up the Florida sun, enjoying a cold one, and looking—well—normal. Yeah, a little out of shape, but let’s be honest, you’re gonna put some weight as you want to spend some time enjoying, right?

But in today’s social media-driven world, “normal” is apparently a crime. Some fans took issue with his offseason physique, while others were quick to remind everyone that, last time they checked, Tua was still the same guy who threw for nearly 4,000 yards last season.

Also, if we are forgetting… Quarterbacks aren’t exactly known for their six-packs. Ever seen Tom Brady at the NFL Combine? That didn’t stop him from winning seven rings. Patrick Mahomes? Man’s obsession with his sauce is real. So, don’t go to him with the expectations of a physique you can drool over.

And if we’re keeping it real, Tua’s job is to read defenses and throw darts, not model for a fitness magazine.

Maybe, just maybe, they have realized it. Sure, it took time. But now, when another video surfaced, this time featuring Tua alongside none other than Baker Mayfield, partying it up on another yacht, things were different. Because if you’re gonna get scrutinized, might as well have company, right?

Oh, don’t worry, the company might have saved some backlash for Tua as the fans are rallying behind him with support. And last, I checked, if there’s any QB who needs one, it’s Tua. Because it has been nothing short of an exhausting ride for him, last season. Both physically and mentally.

The Phins are realizing the importance of ‘rest’ for Tua Tagovailoa

Tua Tagovailoa’s offseason yacht video has turned into the internet’s favorite debate topic. One side says, “He should hit the gym.” The other? They just want him to be and live like a normal person in the offseason. Enjoying time with his family.

Let’s be real—Tua’s health has been the Dolphins’ biggest wild card. After missing time last season due to a concussion, his absence nearly derailed their playoff hopes. So when footage dropped of him enjoying life on a yacht, some fans had… thoughts.

One fan kept it level-headed but cautious: “It is nice to see players have fun, I just hope there are no excuses for next season.” Fair point. Miami’s offense sputtered when Tua was out, scoring just 40 points across four games without him. When he played? A 6-5 record. When he didn’t? 2-4. That’s the difference between a playoff push and an early offseason.

So, while fans aren’t against him enjoying a break, they’re also hoping that once September rolls around, he’s locked in and ready to roll. Then there’s the fan who pointed the fact out: “Tua doubling down and scrubbing it in the Dolfans’ faces who want to see him working out and getting ready for the season. Why is there a beer in his hand every time he is on camera?” 

I mean, you come for your guy under center for enjoying his time off, you better prepare when he’s hitting you back with some more enjoyment. The concern here? Optics. Last season, Miami finished 11-6, but Tua’s own struggles with durability led to a Wild Card exit against the Chiefs. Fans who remember those tough losses just want to see him come back sharper—preferably without a Modelo in sight.

Of course, some fans just want him to have a little fun. One went all in with the boldest prediction yet: “It’s gonna be Dolphins-Bucs Super Bowl this year.” Now, considering Baker Mayfield was also on that boat, this feels more like comedic relief than a genuine take. But hey, with both QBs coming off solid seasons, who’s to say this yacht summit wasn’t a secret strategy session? Maybe they were planning their path to February.

At the end of the day, it’s all fun and games—until kickoff. Whether Tua’s offseason is a sign of confidence or a cause for concern, the only thing that matters is what he does when the season starts. For now, the Dolphins seem to be embracing the idea that rest is part of the process. Because come Week 1, the only thing anyone will care about is whether Tua can deliver.