Dolphins Start 2025 NFL Preseason at Bears with Tagovailoa Limited Series

In the Miami Dolphins' 2025 preseason opener against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field, starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa played only one series, completing five of six passes for 27 yards without being sacked, demonstrating he remains a strong leader under center despite missing top receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle due to injuries. Tagovailoa favored targets Malik Washington and Tahj Washington early but the Dolphins struggled in short-yardage situations, failing to convert four attempts from the 2-yard line, a recurring issue from the previous season. Backup quarterback Zach Wilson took over after Tagovailoa, leading the team to their only touchdown of the game on a 1-yard run by Alexander Mattison. Several key starters, including Tagovailoa, wide receivers, running backs, and defensive players like Zach Sieler and Minkah Fitzpatrick, were dressed and active for the game, although some, like Jaelan Phillips, did not play. The Dolphins entered the game with a healthy stable of running backs and a nearly full offensive line despite an injury to right tackle Austin Jackson. Overall, the game served as a critical evaluation opportunity for both starters and backups, with Tagovailoa looking to bounce back from an injury-riddled 2024 season.