Miami Dolphins fans are all too familiar with the highs and lows of relying heavily on one quarterback, and it seems GM Chris Grier and head coach Mike McDaniel are betting again on that razor-thin contingency plan. With Tua Tagovailoa leading the Dolphins’ charge into Los Angeles, and Skylar Thompson backing him up, Miami is opting not to add a third QB to the roster, despite recent events making it a hot topic.
When C.J. Beathard was whisked away by the Jacksonville Jaguars from the Dolphins’ practice squad earlier this week, some thought it might spark a roster shuffle.
Yet, McDaniel confirmed the team’s decision to hold off on any new signings, citing ongoing talks but no immediate moves. It’s a gamble, sure, but let’s look at the reality: the pool of available quarterbacks isn’t exactly bursting with potential game-changers.
In the unfortunate event that Tua takes a hit, Thompson steps in, not exactly a comforting plan for a team with playoff aspirations.
“We’ve been discussing that,” McDaniel shared about the QB situation, adding that they’re holding out hope for a speedy recovery by Tyler Huntley. With Huntley’s timeline for return unknown, his presence adds an element of intrigue to the Dolphins’ depth chart dynamics. He’s shown flashes that he’s a step above Thompson, but can he truly cement himself as Miami’s go-to backup?
Health concerns surrounding Tua often delve into his history with concussions, yet it’s critical to remember the multifaceted risks any NFL quarterback faces. From hand injuries to freak accidents, the potential for sidelining is omnipresent. In this context, Miami’s decision to roll with two quarterbacks, even amid looming stakes, draws attention.
All eyes will be on Huntley. As observers, we’ll be keen to see if he slots into the second-string role upon returning.
While he might have shown more promise than Thompson, the long-term solution for a solid QB room needs addressing well beyond this season. If Miami wants to shore up its chances in 2025 and beyond, the time is now to solidify their quarterback strategy and ensure the team has a reliable Plan B, come what may.
