Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill was forced to sit out the entire 2017 NFL season after tearing his ACL in the team's first non-contact practice of the year. The Dolphins had to take quick measures and did so by signing free agent quarterback Jay Cutler in an attempt to salvage the season.
While Cutler's performance this year was largely underwhelming, there was speculation that he still could compete with Tannehill for the starting job in 2018. However, it seems head coach Adam Gase is adamant about Tannehill starting for the 2018 season, according to ESPN:
After surgery in late August, Tannehill attended practices and meetings while working through his rehabilitation program. He was throwing 40-yard passes pregame in December. Dolphins coach Adam Gase said Tannehill will be the starter in 2018, barring any setbacks.
It is encouraging to see Gase express confidence in his quarterback despite coming off a severe knee injury. That said, it does not appear as though they have other options.
Given the timetable of when Tannehill's injury occurred, the Dolphins had a small window to work with Cutler before the start of the season. Needless to say, it showed in his performance, as he threw for just 2,666 yards, 19 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions. However, the offense as a whole largely fluctuated throughout the year en route to a 6-10 finish.
Although Gase is optimistic about the team's chances with Tannehill's return, there are still questions about his legitimacy as a franchise quarterback. Although he is signed through the 2020 season, this could be a huge year in determining whether he is the right man moving forward.
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