**Miami Dolphins Tipped as AFC East Favorites for 2024 by Rich Eisen**
The Miami Dolphins, who last claimed the AFC East title in 2008, have been consistently close to reclaiming the division crown in recent years. Sports commentator Rich Eisen confidently placed them as the frontrunners for the 2024 season, citing the dynamic roster and high-paced offense led by quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
During his Monday broadcast, Eisen highlighted the sheer firepower of the Dolphins, starting with Tagovailoa and extending through an impressive lineup that includes running backs Raheem Mostert, Devon Achane, Jalen Wright, and Jeff Wilson Jr. The receiving corps boasts names like Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Braxton Berrios, Malik Washington, and recently added Odell Beckham Jr.
“Just look at the speed and options Tua has at his disposal,” Eisen stated on his show. “It’s arguably the fastest offense in the league right now.”
Eisen didn’t stop at the offense. The Dolphins have strengthened their defense significantly, acquiring cornerback Jalen Ramsey and safety Jordan Poyer to bolster a secondary already featuring Javon Holland. “The Dolphins aren’t just looking good; they are set to dominate,” Eisen asserted, placing them at the top of his list for the AFC East.
While Miami appears strong, their rivals face challenges. Eisen pointed out the Buffalo Bills are undergoing transitions, losing key receivers Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis. He also questioned the potential impact of a healthy Aaron Rodgers for the New York Jets.
However, a significant cloud hangs over Miami’s bright forecast: Tua Tagovailoa’s contract situation. Heading into the final year of his initial NFL agreement in 2024, negotiations for an extension have stalled. Despite picking up Tagovailoa’s fifth-year option, the Dolphins have reportedly not offered a market-value contract similar to those recently signed by contemporaries like Jared Goff of the Detroit Lions and Trevor Lawrence of the Jacksonville Jaguars, which are in the $50-$55 million range.
ESPN’s Jeff Darlington shared insights into the stalled negotiations, noting, “The Dolphins are far from the market benchmarks set by Goff and Lawrence, and this could complicate matters significantly if not addressed soon.”
Tagovailoa, coming off an MVP-caliber 2023 season, has proven his worth. The delay in securing his contract could pose a distraction and potential disruption as the Dolphins head into a promising season, especially with quarterback salaries on the rise.
As the 2024 season approaches, the Miami Dolphins stand at a crossroads. If they can secure their quarterback’s future and harness their potent roster’s capabilities, they could very well dominate not only the AFC East but make a deep playoff run.