Dolphins Backup QB Hunt: Dalton Signs with Carolina

The Dolphins’ search for a backup quarterback has taken another hit as Andy Dalton opted to sign a two-year deal worth $8 million with the Panthers, according to ESPN. The team had inquired about trading for Dalton last September.

Despite this setback, General Manager Chris Grier has stated that the team will address the position, which is crucial given Tua Tagovailoa’s injury history from last season. Last year, Tagovailoa missed four games due to concussion protocol and two with a hip injury.

Marcus Mariota remains an expected target for the Dolphins’ backup quarterback spot in free agency. The 31-year-old has started 74 NFL games and boasts a career passer rating of 90.1. Other notable quarterbacks set for free agency include Sam Darnold, Aaron Rodgers, Justin Fields, and Russell Wilson.

The Dolphins are also dealing with impending free agent decisions, including the fate of Tyler Huntley, who finished last season as the team’s No. 2 quarterback. While the Dolphins told Huntley they would like to keep him, it’s unclear if he’ll become the team’s No. 3 QB if they re-sign him and don’t draft a quarterback.

Additionally, the Dolphins are navigating the process of placing franchise or transition tags on several impending free agents, including safety Jevon Holland. However, using either designation is unlikely due to the team’s current salary cap situation.

Source: https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/barry-jackson/article300537734.html