The Miami Dolphins were able to secure their future franchise quarterback in Tua Tagovailoa with the fifth overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. Regardless, veteran quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick seems to be carrying the edge as the projected starter heading into the 2020 NFL season.

The competition under center in Miami has served as the biggest focus in training camp. According to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, head coach Brian Flores appears to be leaning in Fitzpatrick's favor come Week 1:

“Brian Flores comes from the Bill Belichick school of competition,” Garafolo said. “He wouldn't declare a starting quarterback in this competition this early. But the expectation is you're looking at the starter in Ryan Fitzpatrick.”

The report added that Fitzpatrick's play has served as the determining factor so far as opposed to the health of the Dolphins incoming rookie signal-caller.

“It's less a health thing with Tua, it's more, he's going to have to beat out Ryan Fitzpatrick. It's not going to be about the hip, it's not going to be, we're going to redshirt this guy because he's not ready to go physically. It's really going to be about, let's give him the time to develop if he's not at the point to where he can beat out Fitzpatrick.”

It is hardly surprising to see that Fitzpatrick seems to be picking up where he left off last season. Although he has shared nothing but praise for Tagovailoa, the veteran is not letting up on his status as starter.

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The restrictions placed in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic have offered up its own set of challenges for rookies getting acquainted with their new teams this offseason. Tagovailoa is still doing what he can to get up to speed in the new system while Fitzpatrick has long learned the playbook.

Fortunately, having a surplus of talent under center should allow the Dolphins to take their time with Tagovailoa's development while remaining competitive. Of course, there will continue to be speculation regarding which point he takes over for Fitzpatrick this season.