In the wake of Miami Dolphins’ preseason opener against Atlanta, concerns over the team’s backup quarterback situation have intensified. Starting behind center, Mike White struggled notably, completing just 4 of his 14 pass attempts, which did little to inspire confidence among Miami fans. Though Skylar Thompson posted better numbers, his performance still left much to be desired.
The position seems precarious, especially when considering the Dolphins overlooked Brock Purdy, who has since emerged as a key player for San Francisco, even leading them to a Super Bowl appearance. With starter Tua Tagovailoa’s previous injuries in mind, Miami’s lackluster backup options in White and Thompson could spell trouble.
Given the circumstances, the Dolphins might need to look beyond their current roster for quarterback insurance. Bringing in a seasoned quarterback seems to be a prudent move, and several candidates could fit the bill:
Ryan Tannehill, a former Dolphin himself, stands out as a highly feasible option. Currently without a team, Tannehill’s familiarity with the Dolphins and his proven track record make him the top choice. His potential return could steady the ship should Tagovailoa be sidelined.
Taylor Heinicke also emerges as a potential target. Despite an underwhelming preseason start with Atlanta, his experience as a starter could prove valuable. If Heinicke gets cut, the Dolphins could benefit from giving him a closer look.
Another intriguing scenario involves Russell Wilson, whose future with Pittsburgh remains uncertain. If Wilson becomes available, either through release or a low-cost trade, his experience and ability could offer a significant upgrade for Miami.
Jimmy Garoppolo is yet another name to consider. Although currently suspended, Garoppolo’s familiarity with Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel’s system from their time in San Francisco could make him a viable mid-season addition.
Lesser options might include Davis Mills, Marcus Mariota, Kyle Trask, and Bailey Zappe—all of whom have starting experience but come with their own sets of concerns.
Miami’s front office, led by Chris Grier and McDaniel, faces a tough decision. With the regular season approaching, securing a reliable backup quarterback could be crucial in maintaining their competitiveness, especially in the unpredictable event of Tagovailoa’s absence. The situation demands action, and a strategic acquisition could make all the difference in their campaign.
