Hold on, Dolphins fans — it’s going to be a bumpy ride this weekend. The Miami Dolphins’ rebuild isn’t just about finding a quarterback, but it’s certainly one of the biggest pieces of the puzzle. Miami owns a ton of NFL Draft capital and will have ample opportunity to invest in the most important position in sports — if the value is right.
The one name that has been tied to the Dolphins since the summer? Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, whose play on the field in Tuscaloosa will have NFL fans dreaming of Lombardi Trophies. Yes. Multiple.
There’s just one problem, of course. Tagovailoa suffered a dislocated hip in November, leaving his status and availability for the 2020 NFL Draft up in the air. And now we’re set to find out exactly what Tagovailoa’s decision is for this winter: declare for the Draft and hope the injury doesn’t impact his stock or return to Alabama for his senior season and hope a full season without injury will solidify his status as a top prospect.
Tagovailoa announced he’ll be making his decision on January 6th.
I’ll be making my decision on the 6th.. God bless and Roll Tide
— Tua. T 🇦🇸 (@Tuaamann) January 2, 2020
The Dolphins will be watching this one closely, no doubt. After all, owner Stephen Ross and general manager Chris Grier were seen yesterday on the sidelines of the 2020 Citrus Bowl chatting it up with Tagovailoa’s offensive coordinator, Steve Sarkisian.
If Tagovailoa returns to Alabama, Miami may need to throw some cold water on their hopes of securing a franchise quarterback this offseason — as the value may not make sense for Miami in the 1st-round of this year’s draft with the rest of the quarterbacks available. And if that’s the case, no problem! Miami would be wise to find a trade back that nets the team an additional 1st-round pick in 2021 and continue on their rebuild.
That way, when the opportunity arises next season to choose between Trevor Lawrence, Justin Fields and hypothetically Tagovailoa, the Dolphins can be aggressive in landing their guy.
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