MIAMI — The Dolphins have officially named Mike White as their backup quarterback, according to coach Mike McDaniel. White won the position after a competitive battle with Skylar Thompson that lasted throughout the summer.
Last season, the Dolphins were forced to rely on their backup quarterback on four different occasions due to injuries to their starter. In an effort to strengthen their depth at the position, the team signed White to a two-year, $8 million contract this offseason, with $4.5 million guaranteed. He will now serve as the primary backup to Tua Tagovailoa.
Tagovailoa, who became the Dolphins’ starter during the 2020 season, has struggled with injuries and has yet to play a full season. He appeared in only 13 games in each of the past two years. To better prepare himself for the physical demands of the game, Tagovailoa focused on bulking up his frame and even took jiu-jitsu classes during the offseason.
Coach McDaniel emphasized the importance of having available players on the roster, especially at the quarterback position. He praised White for his command in the huddle and his ability to quickly grasp the team’s system. White’s veteran experience and growth during the offseason made McDaniel feel confident in his abilities as the backup quarterback.
White has previous starting experience with the New York Jets, making seven starts over the past two seasons. He completed 62.2% of his passes for 1,943 yards, throwing 7 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He had impressive performances against the Cincinnati Bengals and Chicago Bears in 2021 and 2022, respectively, throwing for a combined 720 yards and six touchdowns.
Thompson, on the other hand, started three games as a rookie last season. This included a playoff-clinching win over the Jets and a wild-card loss to the Buffalo Bills.
The NFL introduced a new rule this season that allows for an emergency third quarterback if he is a member of the 53-man roster. As a result, all three quarterbacks, including Tagovailoa, White, and Thompson, are expected to be active throughout the year.
Dolphins general manager Chris Grier highlighted the positive dynamic within the quarterback room. He mentioned that all three quarterbacks get along well, support each other, and communicate effectively. Grier believes that the camaraderie among the quarterbacks is an essential factor in their success. He also acknowledged White’s ability to operate the offense and Thompson’s familiarity with the system after being with the team for a year.
In other roster news, the Dolphins have signed wide receiver Robbie Chosen to their practice squad. Chosen had previously spent the offseason with the team after signing a one-year deal as a free agent but was released during final roster cuts last week. The team released defensive end Randy Charlton to make room for Chosen.
With the quarterback position solidified and a strong supporting cast, the Dolphins are hopeful that they have the depth and talent necessary to navigate any potential challenges that may arise during the season. The competition between White and Thompson has pushed both players to improve, ultimately benefiting the team as a whole.