The Miami Dolphins are looking for a bounce-back win against the Cleveland Browns. At 1-5, the team is facing a reality where the playoffs will not be possible following a couple more losses. To help combat their issues, the team has made a surprising quarterback decision ahead of the game.
Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa remains the leader of the offense, but he now has a new backup. Instead of longtime veteran Zach Wilson serving as the backup, Miami has made a massive change.
Wilson is now the third-string quarterback, and rookie passer Quinn Ewers is now the backup for Tagovailoa. This is a huge development considering Ewers has a much better chance to start should anything happen to Tua.
Ewers was drafted by the Dolphins in the 2025 NFL Draft in the seventh round. The young rookie showcased some good decision-making and skill during preseason, but was slated as the third stringer behind Wilson for most of the regular season.
Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel talked about Ewers’ progress, and it appears that progress has been noticed even more. The former Texas Longhorns product is now a backup.
Considering the trade deadline is fast approaching, it will be interesting to see what the Dolphins do with Wilson. He may remain as the team’s practice squad option, or he could be traded for some much-needed draft capital.
Either way, this is huge news for Ewers. It will also be interesting to see how things shake out in 2026. If Ewers can continue growing on this Dolphins team, he may find himself in a quarterback competition next season.
This is just wild speculation, as Tagovailoa is the team’s current franchise option. However, if reports and rumors about the team potentially blowing things up become true, Ewers could find a solid chance to become the starter for the team in 2026.
For more on the Dolphins, head to Newsweek Sports.
2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.