Miami Dolphins Fan Zone: News, Community, Events, and Contests

Tag: Mike McDaniel

  • Mike McDaniel’s Unusual Strategy with the Dolphins Pays Off Unexpectedly

    Mike McDaniel’s Unusual Strategy with the Dolphins Pays Off Unexpectedly

    When Mike McDaniel introduced his unconventional orange jersey award at the start of the 2025 offseason, many fans raised an eyebrow. The idea was simple: each day, one player would be recognized for their performance in practice by wearing a bright orange jersey during drills, and DJing the music for the next session.

    It sounded quirky, even gimmicky.

    But what started as a lighthearted motivational tactic has turned into one of the most effective tools for building team culture, accountability, and camaraderie within the Miami Dolphins locker room.

    The Orange Jersey Isn’t Just for Show

    The jersey isn’t handed out based on star power or stats — it’s awarded to the player who best represents what the Dolphins are trying to build that day.

    “It is solely about somebody that epitomizes what we are trying to do that day,” McDaniel explained.
    “It’s about doing their job that day and how it affects the team.”

    That subtle but powerful message has resonated deeply with players.

    Being chosen means more than just standing out — it’s recognition that your effort contributes directly to the group’s success. And for a team still searching for consistency, that kind of reinforcement matters.

    Bradley Chubb Becomes the Latest Recipient

    This week, the honor went to Bradley Chubb, who continues his comeback from a season-ending injury that sidelined him all of 2024.

    McDaniel praised Chubb for his standout finish in practice, calling it a moment that showed not only his physical return but also his growing leadership presence.

    “There were a lot of players that were eligible for it yesterday,” McDaniel said.
    “Particularly Bradley Chubb showed out when it mattered most.”

    Chubb, clearly moved by the gesture, described the recognition as “dope” and a sign that his hard work is being noticed.

    “Still got a long way to go in terms of perfecting my craft,” he admitted.
    “But working toward it each and every day.”

    Who’s Worn the Orange Jersey So Far?

    Since the start of OTAs, McDaniel has spread the recognition across the roster, emphasizing that this isn’t about fame, but about daily excellence.

    Here’s who’s earned the honor:

    • OTA 1: Jaelan Phillips & Ethan Bonner
    • OTA 2: Storm Duck
    • OTA 3: Aaron Brewer
    • OTA 4: Tua Tagovailoa
    • OTA 5: Chop Robinson
    • OTA 6: Jaylen Wright
    • Minicamp 1: Tanner Conner
    • Minicamp 2: Bradley Chubb

    From starters to depth players, the orange jersey has become a symbol of pride — and proof that effort doesn’t go unnoticed.

    Why This Small Move Is Making a Big Difference?

    At first glance, the orange jersey may seem like just another quirky move from a coach known for thinking outside the box.

    But dig deeper, and you’ll find a strategy rooted in mental engagement, team-first mentality, and positive reinforcement — all critical for a franchise looking to rebuild its identity after a disappointing 2024 season.

    What makes this so effective?

    • Healthy Competition: Players push themselves knowing there’s daily recognition.
    • Leadership Development: Even younger or lesser-known players get spotlight moments.
    • Culture Building: It reinforces that every player plays a role in shaping the team.

    And perhaps most importantly — it’s fun.

    In a league where intensity can often overshadow joy, McDaniel’s orange jersey keeps things light while keeping standards high.

    Final Takeaway: Culture Over Flash

    Mike McDaniel’s orange jersey initiative might not make headlines, but it’s making an impact.

    By focusing on effort, team-first mindset, and player development, McDaniel is quietly reshaping the Dolphins’ locker room — one orange jersey at a time.

    As Miami prepares for training camp and the 2025 season, this small but meaningful ritual could prove to be one of the team’s most underrated strengths.

    Because sometimes, the little things don’t just inspire — they transform.

  • Dolphins Set to Replace Tua Tagovailoa with 53-TD Quarterback

    Dolphins Set to Replace Tua Tagovailoa with 53-TD Quarterback

    The Miami Dolphins are at a crossroads, and the future of Tua Tagovailoa may depend on this season.

    After missing significant time due to injury last year, the Dolphins were 2-4 without him and finished 8-9 and missed the playoffs for the first time since Mike McDaniel took over as head coach.

    Tua knows the stakes better than anyone.

    “I’m doing everything I can to stay available for the guys,” he said during the opening of Dolphins minicamp. “It’s knowing when is the time to give up on a play.”

    But despite his commitment to staying healthy, there are concerns about durability and performance.

    A Regressing Season Raises Red Flags

    In 2023, Tua had one of the best seasons of his career — a Pro Bowl season with over 4,000 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions.

    But in 2024, his numbers dropped off. He was 6-5 as a starter and struggled with consistency and decision making at times.

    That regression, combined with health questions, has fans and analysts wondering if Miami needs to look elsewhere for long term stability at quarterback.

    Could Drew Allar Be the Next Face of the Franchise?

    One name being mentioned in Dolphins circles is Drew Allar, the highly touted quarterback from Penn State.

    Projected by some outlets — including NFL Spin Zone’s Lou Scataglia — as a possible top-10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, Allar already has an impressive resume:

    • Threw 53 touchdowns in a single season at the prep level
    • Led Penn State to multiple Big Ten titles
    • Known for elite poise, arm talent, and leadership on the field

    If Allar comes back for his senior season and leads Penn State deep into the College Football Playoff, he’ll solidify himself as a top prospect and the Dolphins might not be able to resist.

    Scataglia’s mock draft even asks the question:

    “Is Tua really a franchise quarterback? Is this someone who they can absolutely win with?”

    The Culture Shift and What It Means for Tua

    In the midst of all this, Tua mentioned a “culture shift” but didn’t elaborate.

    Whether that means a new offense, locker room, or quarterback remains to be seen.

    What is clear is that the pressure is on for Tua and the Dolphins’ front office.

    If he struggles again or misses more time, Miami will be in a position to draft a new QB — maybe one with 53 touchdowns.

  • Tua Tagovailoa Faces Durability Issues, Vows to Prioritize Team Over Heroics

    Tua Tagovailoa Faces Durability Issues, Vows to Prioritize Team Over Heroics

    Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is entering what could be the most important season of his career, not just for himself, but for the entire franchise.

    After missing key games last year due to injury, the Dolphins struggled, finishing with an 8-9 record — their first non-playoff season since 2020. That downturn was directly tied to Tua’s absence. When he played, Miami went 6-4. When he didn’t? A dismal 2-4.

    It’s no secret: the Dolphins go only as far as Tua can carry them — and that starts with staying on the field.

    ‘Doing Everything I Can to Stay Available’

    During offseason workouts and minicamp this spring, Tagovailoa made it clear where his head is at:

    “I’m doing everything I can to stay available for the guys.”

    That quote might seem simple, but it carries weight. It signals a shift from trying to force plays and risking injury to knowing when to walk away for the sake of long-term team success.

    Tua admitted that in the past, he may have pushed too hard to make a play when he should’ve taken a sack or thrown the ball away. Now, he says he’s more focused than ever on playing smart, protecting his body, and giving his team the best chance to win over 17 weeks.

    The Long Shadow of Injury Concerns

    Tagovailoa has battled questions about his durability since entering the NFL.

    Despite a Pro Bowl season in 2023, his 2024 campaign was rocky, both statistically and physically. He finished with a 6-5 record as a starter, missed multiple games, and faced growing scrutiny about whether he could handle the grind of a full season.

    Those concerns aren’t just external — they’re personal.

    He knows that if he wants to lead the Dolphins back to the playoffs and cement his place among the league’s elite quarterbacks, he must find consistency. And that starts with staying upright and healthy.

    Balancing Instincts with Smarts

    One of the biggest challenges for any quarterback, especially one with Tua’s talent, is learning when not to make a play.

    He’s got the arm. The mobility. The instincts.

    But sometimes, those same traits can lead to unnecessary risks, and that’s where the real growth happens.

    Tagovailoa seems to understand that now. His commitment to stepping away from dangerous situations isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of maturity. He’s embracing the idea that leadership means more than just making highlight-reel throws — it means being there every Sunday.

    What This Means for the Dolphins in 2025?

    The Dolphins built a strong roster around Tua this offseason. With Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle still leading the receiving corps, and a revamped offensive line meant to protect him better, the tools are there.

    Now it’s up to Tua to hold up his end of the bargain.

    If he can stay healthy and manage games wisely, Miami could easily return to playoff contention. But if the injury bug bites again, the pressure will only grow, and the questions will get louder.

    This is his moment.

    A Season Defined by Health and Humility

    As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes are on Tua Tagovailoa — not just for how many yards he throws or touchdowns he scores, but for how well he takes care of himself.

    His vow to prioritize team over heroics may not sound flashy, but it could be exactly what turns his career around.

    And for the Miami Dolphins, that kind of mindset might just be the difference between another early exit and a deep playoff run.

  • Tua Tagovailoa Sends Three-Word Message About Jonnu Smith

    Tua Tagovailoa Sends Three-Word Message About Jonnu Smith

    When asked if he was “Team Pay Jonnu”, Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa didn’t hesitate.

    “One hundred percent, ” he said.

    That short but powerful message sent a clear signal from the quarterback room to the front office: Jonnu Smith deserves to be paid.

    Smith, entering the final year of his two-year, $8.4 million deal, had a breakout season in 2024. He caught 88 passes for 884 yards and eight touchdowns, shattering nearly every franchise record for tight ends in Miami.

    And now, both the coaching staff and his quarterback are speaking up — loud and clear.

    A Career Year Deserving of a Raise

    Let’s put it this way: Jonnu Smith earned every penny of that raise — even if the Dolphins aren’t rushing to write a new check just yet.

    Last season, he became the go-to target in crucial moments, showing soft hands, elite route-running, and a knack for making plays when it mattered most.

    Tagovailoa praised him not only as a player but as a person:

    “That’s my guy, that’s my dog… I think that all of our guys that do what they need to do — they should get paid.”

    Mike McDaniel echoed that sentiment during recent OTA sessions, expressing public support for bringing Smith back full-time.

    But here’s the thing — wants and needs don’t always align with cap realities.

    The Dolphins still have big decisions ahead. And while everyone seems to agree Smith belongs in Miami, the money remains the sticking point.

    Agent Speaks Out – and It’s All Love for Miami

    Smith’s agent recently released a statement reinforcing that Jonnu wants to stay in South Beach.

    He loves the city. He loves the team. He even played college ball at FIU, meaning Miami isn’t just a destination — it’s home.

    Still, love doesn’t pay the bills.

    With other teams likely watching closely, the Dolphins may soon face a decision: restructure his deal or risk losing him in a trade.

    Smith has proven he can be more than just a role player. He’s shown he can be a consistent, matchup-winning weapon on offense — especially when paired with Tagovailoa.

    The Tight End Market Isn’t Helping Miami

    Unfortunately for the Dolphins, the current tight end market doesn’t make keeping Smith easy.

    Veteran players like Travis Kelce, Dallas Goedert, and Mark Andrews are pulling in contracts well north of $12 million per year. Even mid-tier options like Cole Kmet and Trey McBride are getting multi-year deals pushing $9–10 million annually.

    Smith isn’t asking for superstardom — but after leading the team in receptions last year, he’s clearly worth more than his current salary slot.

    And Tagovailoa knows it.

    “I have nothing bad to say about him… he’s done really good for us.”

    That kind of endorsement from your starting QB isn’t just nice to hear — it carries weight. Especially when you’re trying to negotiate a fair value for production.

    What This Means for the Dolphins?

    At this point, the Dolphins have three choices:

    1. Restructure Smith’s contract to reflect his production and keep him long-term.
    2. Trade him before training camp, hoping to recoup some value instead of losing him for nothing in free agency next year.
    3. Let him play out the year, bet on himself again, and see where things stand in 2025.

    While none of these are ideal, option one feels like the best path forward — especially with Tagovailoa coming off multiple injuries and needing every offensive weapon available.

    If the goal is to return to playoff contention in 2025, cutting ties with one of your most reliable targets wouldn’t exactly help.

    Final Thought: Keep the Momentum Going

    This isn’t just about numbers or locker room chemistry — it’s about momentum.

    Jonnu Smith gave everything he had in 2024. His quarterback, coach, and teammates all back him.

    Now it’s time for the Dolphins’ front office to decide whether they’ll match that belief with action.

    Because if Miami wants to build something real in 2025, keeping their tight end duo intact is a great place to start.

    And if they don’t? You can bet another team will be happy to step in.

  • Miami Dolphins Plot Exit Strategy for McDaniel — New Coach on Radar

    Miami Dolphins Plot Exit Strategy for McDaniel — New Coach on Radar

    The Miami Dolphins aren’t ready to make a change — yet. But behind closed doors, whispers suggest they’re preparing for one.

    Sources and analysts alike are starting to talk about what happens if 2025 doesn’t go according to plan for head coach Mike McDaniel. After two seasons of promise but no playoff wins, patience is thinning among ownership. And with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s health still a concern, and the roster entering a delicate transition phase, the Dolphins are said to be quietly mapping out a potential exit strategy.

    That strategy includes looking at high-profile replacements, some more surprising than others.

    Jon Gruden Re-Enters the Conversation

    One name that’s recently surfaced? Jon Gruden.

    Yes, you read that right.

    Gruden, who stepped away from the Raiders in 2021 after controversy surrounding offensive emails, is being floated as a possible candidate should Miami decide to make a coaching change down the line.

    NFL analyst and former scout John Middlekauff recently speculated on this possibility:

    “I think if and when they fire everybody in Miami… he would be an option.”

    It’s not just idle chatter. Gruden has kept his hand in football, most recently joining the ownership group of the Nashville Kats in the revived Arena Football League — a move many see as part of a broader effort to rebuild his public image.

    And while he hasn’t been on an NFL sideline since 2021, his track record speaks for itself: over 100 career wins, multiple playoff appearances, and a Super Bowl victory with the Buccaneers in 2003.

    Why Gruden Makes Sense — and Why It’s Risky

    From a football perspective, Gruden checks a lot of boxes.

    He’s a proven leader. He knows how to build around quarterbacks. And he brings a fiery intensity that could reignite a team that underachieved last season despite elite talent like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.

    But the off-field concerns remain.

    His past comments continue to cast a long shadow, especially for a franchise trying to maintain a positive public image. Any consideration of Gruden would require serious internal conversations about whether his leadership style aligns with the Dolphins’ evolving culture.

    Still, in the world of professional football, second chances do happen — especially when championships are on the line.

    Dolphins Could Pivot Toward Experience

    Historically, Miami has leaned toward young, innovative coaches, which is why hiring McDaniel made sense in the first place. But if results don’t follow, the Dolphins may feel forced to pivot.

    A return to a proven veteran voice could be the next step — and Gruden isn’t the only name in play. Other experienced coaches have also been linked to Miami, though none carry quite the same intrigue or controversy as Gruden.

    If things unravel in 2025, expect this conversation to grow louder, faster.

    Final Thought: The Coaching Carousel Is Already Spinning

    The Dolphins aren’t making any moves — not yet.

    But as pressure builds on McDaniel and uncertainty swirls around Tua’s future, it’s clear Miami is already thinking ahead.

    Whether it’s Gruden or another big name, one thing is certain: the Dolphins are watching the coaching market closely — and they might not wait until January to act.

  • How Tyreek Plans to Torch the Colts Defense This Week

    How Tyreek Plans to Torch the Colts Defense This Week

    Tyreek Hill is known for his blazing speed, electrifying plays, and now, his sense of humor. The Miami Dolphins wide receiver has been at the center of a social media storm this week after the Indianapolis Colts’ controversial schedule release video poked fun at him. But instead of taking offense, Hill turned the moment into an opportunity to showcase his personality—and set the stage for what could be a statement game against the Colts.

    The Controversy That Sparked It All

    The Colts released their 2025 schedule announcement with a Minecraft-themed video that included a jab at Hill. In the clip, a cartoon version of Hill was shown swimming (a nod to dolphins) before being detained by the Coast Guard—a clear reference to his off-field incident prior to the 2024 season.

    While some viewed the video as insensitive, the Colts quickly deleted it and issued an apology to both Microsoft (for copyright issues) and Hill himself. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Colts even reached out to Hill’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus, to express regret.

    But here’s where things took a hilarious turn: Hill didn’t seem bothered at all. In fact, he defended the Colts on X (formerly Twitter), saying the joke was funny and they should’ve left it up.

    “Should’ve left it up @Colts, this was funny 🤷🏾‍♂️,” Hill tweeted, showing his ability to laugh at himself.

    He then followed up with a clever jab of his own, posting a screenshot mocking the Colts’ lackluster win total last season.

    Hill Takes the High Ground—and the Last Laugh

    What I love about Hill’s response is he didn’t get angry or let it get to him. He leaned into it and proved why he’s one of the most fun personalities in the NFL.

    This diffused any tension and gave fans something to get behind. Now we all get to watch on Sunday with the Dolphins and Colts—especially since Hill’s probably gonna show Indy why messing with him might just come back to bite them on the field.

    Chargers Join the Fun with Their Own Jab

    It wasn’t just the Colts taking shots at the Dolphins this week. The Los Angeles Chargers got in on the action, too, with their Minecraft-inspired schedule release video.

    The Chargers packed their video with Easter eggs referencing the Dolphins:

    • A yacht named “Dan Marina” (a nod to Dan Marino).
    • Dolphins players meeting with Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield, whom Hill recently said was one of his top 5 QBs—conveniently leaving out Tua Tagovailoa.
    • Hill is running late to a meeting, referencing coach Mike McDaniel’s comments about fining players for being late last season.
    • A re-creation of McDaniel’s Sunday Night Football interview, where he ran off the field mid-interview.

    Even though these were all in good fun, it adds extra juice to the upcoming games between the Dolphins and their AFC rivals.

    Hill’s Blueprint for Dominating the Colts

    If there’s one thing we know about Tyreek Hill, it’s that he loves being under pressure—and sometimes a little controversy fuels his fire. With the Colts’ secondary struggling to keep up with elite receivers, he’s got all the ammo he needs to go off this week.

    1. Speed Kills

    Hill’s speed is a nightmare for the Colts. I know, I know, I said that already. But it’s true. Whether it’s deep routes down the sideline or quick slants that allow him to hit full speed, the Colts need to bring their A-game to slow him down.

    2. Tua Chemistry

    Hill left Tua Tagovailoa off his top 5 QB list. But their chemistry is still real. Expect Tua to look for Hill early and often, especially on plays designed to get the ball out of his hands and stretch the Colts’ secondary.

    3. Revenge Factor

    Hill laughed off the Colts’ video. But don’t be surprised if he uses it as motivation. Players like Hill love proving people wrong—and making headlines while doing so.

    Why This Matters?

    Beyond the jokes and jabs, this Week 1 game matters. For the Dolphins, it’s a chance to start the season 1-0 and shut up the haters who think they can’t compete in the AFC East. For the Colts, it’s an opportunity to be a contender—but stopping Tyreek Hill won’t be easy.

  • Dolphins Fans Will Love Who Miami Met with at the 2025 NFL Combine

    Dolphins Fans Will Love Who Miami Met with at the 2025 NFL Combine

    The NFL Combine is more than just 40-yard dashes and bench press reps. Behind the scenes it’s a whirlwind of meetings, strategy sessions and player evaluations that sets the stage for the upcoming draft.

    For the Miami Dolphins this year’s Combine was an opportunity to meet one of the most intriguing prospects in recent memory: Former Penn State tight end Tyler Warren.

    Tyler Warren’s “Fun Meeting” with the Dolphins

    On Thursday Tyler Warren confirmed he met with the Miami Dolphins at the Combine. He said it was a “fun meeting”. Warren also praised head coach Mike McDaniel calling him a “smart offensive mind”.

    Warren is widely regarded as the top tight end in this years draft class—and it’s not even close. The only question is whether he’ll go in the first round or not. His athleticism, blocking ability and top end receiving skills make him a rare talent that can impact any offense right away.

    Why Tyler Warren would be a Game-Changer for the Dolphins?

    Warren isn’t just a pass catcher; he’s a complete tight end. He can block in the run game, create mismatches in coverage and make highlight reel catches look routine. Paring him with veteran tight end Jonnu Smith would give the Dolphins a dynamic duo that could take their offense to new heights.

    Impact Over Need

    The Dolphins have bigger needs along the offensive line, defensive line and at safety but Warren is the kind of talent you can’t pass up. Drafting for need often leads to missed opportunities on players who can change the direction of a franchise. Warren is one of those players.

    As one Dolphins fan said: “If you’re asking me to choose between Warren and an offensive lineman, I’m taking Warren every time.”

    Dolphins’ Interest in Warren

    The Dolphins need offensive line, defensive line, and safety but Warren’s talent is too good to pass up. Meeting him at the Combine makes them serious and fans should be excited.

    Warren is a top-10 pick and the Dolphins may have to trade up to get him. But he could be worth it.

    FAQs About Tyler Warren and the Dolphins

    Who is Tyler Warren?

    Tyler Warren is a Penn State tight end and the top tight end in the 2025 NFL Draft. Athletic, versatile and has elite hands. First round pick.

    Why do the Miami Dolphins need Tyler Warren?

    They already have Jonnu Smith but adding Warren would be a game changer on offense. He can block, run routes and make big plays in the passing game. Big boost to the offense.

    Will Tyler Warren fall to the Dolphins in the draft?

    Warren is a top-10 pick so the Dolphins (picking 13th) may have to trade up to get him. But his skill set might be worth it.

    What did Warren say about the Miami Dolphins?

    Warren said the meeting was “fun” and praised coach Mike McDaniel as a “smart offensive mind”. Clearly he made an impression on both sides.

  • ‘It Was Surreal’: How the Dolphins Wowed a Top Offensive Line Prospect

    ‘It Was Surreal’: How the Dolphins Wowed a Top Offensive Line Prospect

    North Dakota State offensive lineman Grey Zabel met with the Miami Dolphins at the NFL Combine and it wasn’t just another formal interview. For Zabel, it was a surreal moment. Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel left a lasting impression with his personality and passion for football—something that’s become synonymous with McDaniel since he took over in Miami.

    Zabel’s Take on McDaniel

    It’s no secret Mike McDaniel is one of the most fun personalities in the NFL. Draft prospects rave about their meetings with him and Zabel was no exception.

    “Yeah, he’s a happy-go-lucky type guy, loved being able to finally meet him, shake his hand and have a meeting with him. So that was kind of a surreal moment for me.”

    Beyond McDaniel’s personality, Zabel was impressed with the Dolphins’ approach during their meeting.

    “The big thing about that meeting was just the passion. They have super high football IQ and that kind of program or team and throughout this process has been super cool to see every single team and what makes their ball club click.”

    Clearly the Dolphins made an impression on Zabel—and based on his comments it seems the feeling is mutual.

    Why Grey Zabel Could Be a Game-Changer for the Dolphins

    One of the things that sets Grey Zabel apart from other OL prospects is his versatility. He’s not just one position; Zabel can play anywhere along the line. This is something all NFL teams value but could be especially beneficial for the Dolphins who are always looking for players who can play multiple roles.

    Asked where he projects at the next level Zabel said:

    “Offensive line.”

    Pressed further on which position would suit him best in the NFL he said:

    “Offensive line.”

    Even when jokingly asked about playing tight end due to his good hands—or throwing passes because of his baseball background as a former pitcher—Zabel leaned into the humor while reinforcing his commitment to the trenches.

    Senior Bowl Performance Boosts Stock

    Zabel’s stock skyrocketed after a strong showing at the Senior Bowl where he showed his athleticism, technique and football IQ. ESPN has him as the 38th overall prospect, right in the range of the Dolphins’ first two picks (13th and 48th overall). Rankings are always fluid and can change but Zabel’s talent and versatility makes him a strong first or second round prospect.

    The Dolphins already saw him up close at the Senior Bowl where assistant OL coach Lemuel Jeanpierre worked with him. Now after meeting with him at the combine it’s clear Miami is considering him.

  • How Should the Dolphins Approach Their Backup Quarterback Search?

    How Should the Dolphins Approach Their Backup Quarterback Search?

    The Miami Dolphins invested bigtime in Tua Tagovailoa last offseason, signing him to a 4 year $200 million extension. But as the franchise is now in it’s 25th straight season without a playoff win, finding a reliable backup quarterback has become a emergency.

    When Tua Goes Down, So Does the Offense?

    Tua Tagovailoa has only played a full 17 game season once in his 5 year career. When he’s been out, the Dolphins offense has collapsed. Last season, Skylar Thompson and Snoop Huntley started 6 games and the Dolphins scored 15 or less in 4 of those games. With big time players like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle on the roster, this is unacceptable.

    The Dolphins have made the playoffs only 3 times in the last 15 years and 2 of those were with backup quarterbacks. This is a pattern: the Dolphins have never had a reliable 2nd string quarterback and it’s cost them big time in key moments.

    What Coach Mike McDaniel Is Saying?

    At the NFL Combine, coach Mike McDaniel addressed the backup QB situation. He said both free agency and the draft are options to improve the Quarter Back room.

    “I prioritize people that can pass,” McDaniel said. “All things are on the table—young, old. There’s some guys we’re interested in in free agency and some in the draft.”

    McDaniel acknowledged it’s urgent. “We need to upgrade the backup quarterback.” While drafting a developmental guy on 2 or 3 might be part of the plan, it’s hard to imagine relying on a rookie this year.

    Free Agency vs. Draft: Which Way Should the Dolphins Go?

    Why Free Agency Makes Sense?

    The Dolphins don’t need a backup who can throw for 300 yards and 3 touchdowns every game—those QBs aren’t available. But they do need someone who can keep the offense going when Tagovailoa is out. Enter the free agent market where experienced options like Marcus Mariota, Taylor Heinicke, Jameis Winston, Carson Wentz and Zach Wilson will be available.

    None of those guys are perfect but they have experience and familiarity with NFL systems. ESPN’s Adam Schefter recently linked former Washington Commanders QB Marcus Mariota to Miami. Mariota’s mobility and game management could be a good fit in McDaniel’s offense.

    Why the Draft Isn’t Enough?

    Drafting a QB on Day 2 or 3 will give you long term depth but rookies come with growing pains. With holes all over the roster, investing in a raw prospect might not give you immediate results. The Dolphins can’t have another season where the offense scores 14 points a game when Tagovailoa is out.

    The Case for an Experienced Backup

    Miami’s struggles with Tagovailoa out of the lineup show how important it is to have a proven backup. A veteran quarterback doesn’t have to be great—he just has to keep the team from losing while the starter is out. Guys like Taylor Heinicke and Jameis Winston have shown flashes and know how to handle tough situations. Even Carson Wentz, despite his inconsistency, has the arm to make plays.

    An experienced backup also brings stability to the QuarterBack room. Chemistry between starters and backups is key, especially in McDaniel’s system which is all about timing and accuracy.