3 Miami Dolphins who have to take the next step this season

Dolphins who need to step up: 1. Tua Tagovailoa

Tagovailoa has generally been a high-quality starter for the Dolphins when he’s been able to stay on the field. The problem for the former Alabama star is that his frightening concussion history makes him a risky bet to start 17 games this year.

The Dolphins can afford to survive without Tagovailoa for a couple of regular season games, but any extended stretch of time on the bench could torpedo their season. Tagovailoa needs to learn how to limit the punishment he takes on the field. Throwing the ball away more often could do wonders for Miami’s win total.

When Tagovailoa is healthy, look for the Dolphins’ coaching staff to encourage him to push the ball down the field more often. Both Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle can absolutely fly. It’s nearly impossible to double-team both players at once which gives Miami an appealing advantage on almost every passing down.

It’s not a bold statement to claim that any NFL team’s fortunes will hinge largely on their quarterback’s ability to stay healthy. The Dolphins know that more than most franchises. They went out and signed Mike White to be a nice insurance policy this offseason, but he’s not going to pilot Miami to the promised land. Only Tagovailoa has the talent to make that happen from the game’s most important position.