Fansided

Ranking each NFL rookie QB by who is in the best position

By Brad Berreman

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - OCTOBER 19: Justin Herbert #10 of the Oregon Ducks warms up prior to taking on the Washington Huskies during their game at Husky Stadium on October 19, 2019 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - OCTOBER 19: Justin Herbert #10 of the Oregon Ducks warms up prior to taking on the Washington Huskies during their game at Husky Stadium on October 19, 2019 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /
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Tua Tagovailoa, Alabama Crimson Tide
Credit: Wesley Hitt/Getty Images /

2. Tua Tagovailoa, Miami Dolphins

The Dolphins showed themselves as pre-draft smokescreen experts, ultimately taking Tagovailoa despite some rumors they were wavering toward Justin Herbert or an offensive tackle at No. 5. Head coach Brian Flores worked under Bill Belichick for many years, and his mentor is surely proud of the misdirection Miami offered.

Tagovailoa tried to dismiss questions about his injured hip during the truncated pre-draft process, with plenty of indications he is progressing incredibly well. But the Dolphins are in a position where they don’t have to force him into the lineup Week 1, even if he is theoretically 100 percent healthy, with Ryan Fitzpatrick back as a bridge/mentor to hold down the fort for however long he needs to.

The Dolphins had an active run in free agency, with an eye on a quicker than expected rise in the AFC East. Then they drafted three offensive lineman, and traded for running back Matt Breida during the draft. The supporting cast around the quarterback, now and for the future, has been upgraded nicely with another solid set of draft picks coming in 2021.

Tua is taking his talents to South Beach, and he has landed in a very nice situation that looks perfect for him.

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