After several weeks of rumors, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats announced that they have officially signed American quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa to their practice squad roster. Tagovailoa joins a full quarterback room with CFL veterans Bo Levi Mitchell, Taylor Powell, and Harrison Frost. The Tiger-Cats newest quarterback is the younger brother of Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.

The 5’11, 200-pound native of Ewa Beach, Hawaii, started his college football career at the University of Alabama, backing up his brother. Tagovailoa transferred to the University of Maryland after the 2019 season. He played four seasons for the Terrapins, and after his last season at Maryland, he applied for a sixth year of eligibility with an intent to transfer, but the NCAA denied his request.

While playing for Maryland, Tagovailoa completed 956 passes for 11,256 yards, resulting in 76 passing touchdowns. However, he also threw 37 interceptions. The younger Tagovailoa ended his career at Maryland as the all-time passing leader in the Big Ten conference. In addition to being a prolific passer, Tagovailoa ran the ball for 13 rushing touchdowns.

The 2021 season was Tagovailoa’s most productive season at Maryland, during which he passed for 3,860 yards and threw 26 touchdown passes. His 26 touchdown passes tied a Maryland record held by Tiger-Cats head coach Scott Milanovich for passing touchdowns in a single season. Tagovailoa was honored to be named an All-Big Ten player twice in his collegiate career at Maryland.

In 2024, Tagovailoa faced a setback when he went undrafted in the NFL Draft. However, his determination and resilience were evident as he was invited to rookie mini-camps with the Seattle Seahawks and Arizona Cardinals. Despite not earning a contract offer, Tagovailoa remains hopeful and is ready to kickstart his professional football career in the CFL, particularly with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.

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