There is no doubt Tua Tagovailoa is the quarterback of the future in Miami. But incumbent starter Ryan Fitzpatrick still looks like the man under center in 2020. However, Fitzpatrick understands the Dolphins will be relying on him to provide tutelage for the rookie this year.
Fitzpatrick stated he cannot wait to see what Tagovailoa brings to the Dolphins roster, adding he wants to be a mentor for the younger guys in the quarterback room (via Joe Schad of the Palm Beach Post):
Fitzpatrick has pledged to be an open book for Tagovailoa and it seems quarterback Zoom meetings have been going well. Fitzpatrick has stressed the importance of the younger players having the confidence to ask him questions.
“We’ve been going over some of that stuff, and my mind and the process and how I think through it, right or wrong, just to provide some perspective,” Fitzpatrick said. “I’m excited for him to be here. I loved watching him play in college. I think he’s going to be an awesome addition to the team for a long time.”
Fitzpatrick believes if he helps Tagovailoa, it will be in the best interest of the team’s short and long-term success. While both quarterbacks want to compete to start, the Fitzpatrick-Tagovailoa dynamic seems destined to succeed.
Fitzpatrick has taken on the role of journeyman starter for a number of struggling franchises in recent years, though it is one he has fully embraced.
The 37-year-old had a 5-8 record in 13 starts with the Dolphins, and he even led the team in rushing, often gutting his way through games behind a poor offensive line and nonexistent rushing attack.
Miami will see how Tagovailoa progresses in his first camp. Tua's arm talent makes him the most exciting quarterback prospect the Dolphins have had in years.
Until he is ready, however, Fitzpatrick will be there to take on quarterbacking duties and serve as a point of reference for Tagovailoa.