The Miami Dolphins finished their 2023 campaign with an 11-6 record and made the postseason for the second time in as many years under head coach Mike McDaniel. Unfortunately, it came to an end with a loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in the wild-card round.
While other teams are in the midst of their playoff run, it’s time to do some reflecting on the team in South Florida.
Over the next couple of weeks, we’ll be reviewing and evaluating different positions for the Dolphins in 2023. Today, we’ll look at the quarterbacks.
QB Tua Tagovailoa: B+
After the way that the 2022 season ended for Tagovailoa, there were real questions about whether or not the quarterback would play football again. Not only did he suit up for Miami in 2023, but for the first time in his career, he played in every game.
Tagovailoa, in 17 regular-season starts, set career highs in completion percentage (69.3%), passing yards (4,624 – league-leading) and touchdowns (29). Unfortunately, he also threw the most interceptions of his career (14).
This offseason, the Dolphins will have to decide whether to extend the former first-round pick long-term or go into contract year with him under center.
His highs are high, but there are still some things that he’ll need to clean up if he wants to receive an “A.”
Mike White: C+
With all of the questions about Tagovailoa’s health and future in the game, the backup in Miami was expected to be extremely important.
However, White only got into six games this season, all in mop-up duty. He completed five of his six pass attempts for 74 yards, including a long 68-yard touchdown to Robbie Chosen against the Denver Broncos. His lone incompletion was an interception in Miami’s battle with the Carolina Panthers.
White’s under contract for one more year with a reasonable $5.21 million, so he may get more opportunities in 2024.
Skylar Thompson: INC
After being thrust into the starting role at points in 2022, Thompson’s second year in the NFL was much quieter. He served as the emergency third quarterback in all 17 regular season games and the wild-card round as well.
If all goes well for the Dolphins, Thompson will continue to shine in the preseason and be either a quality third backup for a trade chip for a team looking for a backup.
