UPDATE: The Miami Dolphins are grappling with a serious backup quarterback crisis after rookie Quinn Ewers, selected in the seventh round from Texas, was thrust into the role behind starter Tua Tagovailoa during a brutal 31-6 loss to the Cleveland Browns on October 29, 2023. This shift raises urgent questions about the team’s decision-making at a critical position for the second consecutive year.
The Dolphins’ failure to secure a reliable backup quarterback has reached a breaking point. Ewers replaced veteran Zach Wilson, the former No. 2 pick from the 2021 draft, highlighting major concerns regarding the team’s evaluation process under General Manager Chris Grier and Coach Mike McDaniel. This marks the third year out of four that the Dolphins have faced uncertainty at the backup quarterback position, a situation deemed unacceptable by many fans and analysts alike.
Ewers had a modest performance, completing 5 of 8 passes for 53 yards with an 81.8 passer rating against Cleveland. However, the shift to Ewers raises more questions than answers, especially as McDaniel indicated that this change was “game specific.” With the Dolphins sitting at a dismal 1-6 this season, fans are left wondering who will back up Tagovailoa in next week’s game against the Atlanta Falcons.
The uncertainty is palpable. If Tagovailoa, who has thrown 11 touchdowns and 10 interceptions this season, struggles against the Falcons, the Dolphins’ decision on who fills the backup slot remains unclear. Will it be Ewers or Wilson? This indecision has left many questioning the effectiveness of Grier and McDaniel’s leadership.
In previous seasons, the Dolphins have faced similar turmoil. In 2022, they thought veteran Teddy Bridgewater would provide stability, but he struggled with injuries. Last season, Mike White and Skylar Thompson were supposed to be the solution, but neither proved effective, leading to a chaotic rotation of backups throughout the year.
As the Dolphins continue to flounder in their search for a reliable backup, the ramifications are becoming increasingly severe. Rumors suggest that Grier and McDaniel may face scrutiny and potential job loss if this trend continues. The lack of a solid backup plan indicates a deeper issue within the franchise’s management.
Critically, Ewers’ promotion to the backup role may have been a necessary move, but it reflects poorly on the Dolphins’ front office. The team had previously invested in Wilson as a “direct, calculated” target, yet the decision to switch to Ewers raises eyebrows about their overall strategy.
Additionally, the Dolphins’ management has compounded their problems by making questionable financial decisions, such as extending Tagovailoa’s contract to $212 million in 2024, which limits their ability to strengthen other crucial positions. Many fans feel that the funds could have been better utilized to secure a solid cornerback or defensive tackle instead.
As the Dolphins prepare for their upcoming matchup against the Falcons, all eyes will be on the quarterback situation. Will they finally settle on a backup, or will the chaos continue? The stakes are high, and with the season spiraling out of control, the pressure is mounting on Grier and McDaniel to deliver results.
The Miami Dolphins must act decisively to restore faith among their fanbase and stabilize their quarterback situation. With the next game just around the corner, the urgency to resolve this crisis has never been greater. The world is watching, and the fate of this season hangs in the balance.
