Last week, the Miami Dolphins headlined all major stories after making two blockbuster deals involving top draft picks.
But, in doing so, they also added an extra layer of security for their second-year quarterback. Tua Tagovailoa.
It is no secret that this draft class is filled with quarterback talent.
In fact — before Miami’s trades — many projected that the first four picks would be quarterbacks.
Quite frankly, after the trades, it has become more apparent that is a likely outcome.
So, what exactly does this mean moving forward for Miami?
Well, for starters, the biggest assumption is that they trust Tua will become that guy.
Job Security For Tua Tagovailoa
There is no denying that Tua struggled in his rookie season.
But, then again, who truly excels in their first year?
Sure, Chargers QB Justin Herbert broke nearly all rookie records last year, a precedent that was set by Peyton Manning, then Russell Wilson, followed by Baker Mayfield.
Yet, when selecting a potential franchise quarterback, teams hope that player can develop into a superstar.
Quite often, a rookie sensation falls into the hardships of a sophomore slump.
Miami appears confident in Tua’s ability — otherwise, they wouldn’t have made the trade that shifted the draft.
The #Dolphins and #49ers made a draft trade: SF gets No. 3, while Miami gets no. 12, a 3 and future 1s, source confirms as @AdamSchefter said.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 26, 2021
By moving back in the draft, the Miami Dolphins made it clear that they are no longer in the rookie quarterback market.
In his rookie season, Tua finished with a 64.1 completion percentage, 1,814 yards, 11 touchdowns, 5 interceptions and a QBR of 52.5.
While those aren’t the greatest of numbers, he did show flashes potential in their Week 9 victory over the Cardinals and in the Week 14 loss to Kansas City.
Also, keep in mind that Tua had to consistently look over his shoulder as he was benched on multiple occasions for Ryan Fitzpatrick.
Regardless of the outcome, benching a rookie quarterback could ultimately end up hurting their confidence.
Nevertheless, the Miami Dolphins have made it abundantly clear that they are moving forward with Tua as their quarterback.
Miami Dolphins Draft Plan
Shortly after they made the blockbuster deal with San Francisco, the Dolphins made another deal moving up to the number 6 spot in the draft.
Another NFL trade 🚨
Eagles get: No. 12 pick, fourth-round pick, 2022 first-round pick
Dolphins get: No. 6 pick and fifth-round pick pic.twitter.com/t5RnybdJmy
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 26, 2021
Truthfully, the Dolphins have Bill O’Brien to thank for this as they were able to acquire these extra picks due to the Laremy Tunsil deal.
In fact, the former Dolphins OT took to Twitter, posting a meme of a statue of himself outside of Hard Rock Stadium.
#Dolphins great Laremy Tunsil chimes in on the blockbuster trades he produced for Miami 😂😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/oStlxcd8Gx
— Safid Deen 💯💯💯💯 (@Safid_Deen) March 27, 2021
In all seriousness, through draft capital and free agent signings, the Dolphins have set themselves up for a bright future.
Thus far in the offseason, the Dolphins were able to sign WR Will Fuller — who is a deep threat and can add more versatility to this offense.
They also bolstered their offensive line with the signing of C Matt Skura.
Now, they are set in prime draft position to continue to add depth to this team.
Many expect Miami to go with a wide receiver and offensive linemen in the first round.
One player they have their eye on is OT Rashawn Slater out of NorthWestern.
With the sixth pick, Miami might try and add another wide receiver.
Ja’Mar Chase, Jaylen Waddle and DeVonta Smith are the top three in this class.
Also, keep your eye on TE Kyle Pitts out of Florida, who is a physical specimen.
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