The Miami Dolphins are making a bold quarterback move down the stretch, benching Tua Tagovailoa in favor of rookie Quinn Ewers. And while the headlines might focus on the decision to sit Tua, it’s the ripple effect that’s catching attention across the league.
Let’s start with the obvious: this is a major shift. Tagovailoa, who’s been the face of the Dolphins’ offense, admitted he’s “not happy about” the benching - and frankly, who would be? He’s been the guy under center through highs and lows, and now he’s watching from the sideline as a rookie takes the reins.
But the Dolphins aren’t turning to Zach Wilson either, which adds another layer to the story. Wilson, who left the Broncos in free agency with hopes of getting a real shot at a starting job, is understandably frustrated.
He told reporters he’s “confused” about being passed over. And it’s not hard to see why - this was supposed to be a fresh opportunity, a chance to reboot his career.
Instead, he’s watching a first-year QB leapfrog him on the depth chart.
That first-year QB? Quinn Ewers.
The rookie called the opportunity a “dream come true,” and you can bet he’ll be eager to prove he belongs. It’s a gutsy call by Miami - turning to a rookie at this stage of the season is never a small decision.
But it signals something bigger: the Dolphins are looking for a spark, and they believe Ewers might be the one to provide it.
Meanwhile, a handful of former Broncos are making moves of their own. Offensive lineman Marques Cox has landed on the Arizona Cardinals’ practice squad, while safety Tanner McCalister is now with the Kansas City Chiefs' practice squad. And wide receiver River Cracraft is heading to the Washington Commanders’ practice squad, adding depth to their receiving corps.
Elsewhere, offensive tackle Cam Fleming got a workout with the Indianapolis Colts, and edge rusher Ronnie Perkins had a tryout with the Pittsburgh Steelers - two veterans trying to find their next opportunity as teams look to shore up depth late in the season.
And in Los Angeles, the Chargers released running back Royce Freeman from their practice squad. Freeman’s been a journeyman back in recent years, and this move puts him back on the market as teams deal with injuries and playoff pushes.
So while the quarterback shuffle in Miami grabs the spotlight, there’s plenty happening behind the scenes as teams make late-season adjustments. The Dolphins’ decision to go with Ewers over both Tagovailoa and Wilson is a clear message - they’re not just playing for now, they’re looking toward what comes next.