Posted on Aug 25

Dolphins release QB Mike White, ending backup battle with Skylar Thompson

u/alex • 5m

Dolphins release quarterback Mike White, solidifying Skylar Thompson as backup to Tua Tagovailoa.

Why it matters: The decision to cut ties with White indicates the Dolphins' confidence in Thompson's abilities and their commitment to developing young talent.

What's new: The Dolphins have released quarterback Mike White, who served as the team's backup last season, paving the way for Skylar Thompson to secure the role behind starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.

Yes, but: While White had experience as a backup and performed adequately in limited game action, the Dolphins believe Thompson has more potential and upside.

What to watch: Keep an eye on Thompson's development and how he handles the responsibilities of being the primary backup. His performance will be crucial in case Tagovailoa encounters any injuries or struggles during the season.

The bottom line: By releasing White, the Dolphins are signaling their commitment to grooming young talent and ensuring they have a capable backup quarterback ready if needed.

Thompson's journey to becoming the backup quarterback:

Thompson, a seventh-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, impressed the coaching staff with his work ethic and progress during the offseason program.
He split reps with White throughout training camp and preseason games, showcasing his skills and potential.

Coach Mike McDaniel on evaluating the quarterbacks:

McDaniel emphasized the importance of assessing a quarterback's ability to handle pressure and make sound decisions, especially in challenging situations.
He looked for nuances, resolve, and leadership qualities in both White and Thompson.

White's performance and statistics:

During the 2023 season, White played in six games, completing 5 of 6 passes for 74 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
In the preseason, White completed 20 of 43 passes for 179 yards.

Thompson's potential:

Thompson displayed promise during the preseason, completing 35 of 61 passes for 379 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions.
As a rookie, he played in eight games and made three starts due to injuries to Tagovailoa and primary backup Teddy Bridgewater.

The financial aspect:

Releasing White saves the Dolphins $3.5 million against the salary cap this season.
The team can allocate those savings towards other areas of need or future investments.

What's next: Thompson will continue to develop and work closely with the coaching staff to refine his skills and understanding of the Dolphins' offensive system.

Zoom Out: The decision to release White highlights the Dolphins' commitment to investing in young talent and fostering competition within the quarterback position.

Zoom In: Skylar Thompson's progress and performance will be under scrutiny as he assumes the role of Tua Tagovailoa's backup, potentially impacting the team's overall success and depth at the quarterback position.

#dolphins #nfl

Alex Parker

Posted on Aug 25

Dolphins release QB Mike White, ending backup battle with Skylar Thompson

Alex Parker

u/alex • 5m

#dolphins #nfl

Dolphins release quarterback Mike White, solidifying Skylar Thompson as backup to Tua Tagovailoa.

Why it matters: The decision to cut ties with White indicates the Dolphins' confidence in Thompson's abilities and their commitment to developing young talent.

Yes, but: While White had experience as a backup and performed adequately in limited game action, the Dolphins believe Thompson has more potential and upside.

The bottom line: By releasing White, the Dolphins are signaling their commitment to grooming young talent and ensuring they have a capable backup quarterback ready if needed.

Thompson's journey to becoming the backup quarterback:

Thompson, a seventh-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, impressed the coaching staff with his work ethic and progress during the offseason program.
He split reps with White throughout training camp and preseason games, showcasing his skills and potential.

Coach Mike McDaniel on evaluating the quarterbacks:

McDaniel emphasized the importance of assessing a quarterback's ability to handle pressure and make sound decisions, especially in challenging situations.
He looked for nuances, resolve, and leadership qualities in both White and Thompson.

White's performance and statistics:

During the 2023 season, White played in six games, completing 5 of 6 passes for 74 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
In the preseason, White completed 20 of 43 passes for 179 yards.

Thompson's potential:

Thompson displayed promise during the preseason, completing 35 of 61 passes for 379 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions.
As a rookie, he played in eight games and made three starts due to injuries to Tagovailoa and primary backup Teddy Bridgewater.

The financial aspect:

Releasing White saves the Dolphins $3.5 million against the salary cap this season.
The team can allocate those savings towards other areas of need or future investments.

What's next: Thompson will continue to develop and work closely with the coaching staff to refine his skills and understanding of the Dolphins' offensive system.

Zoom Out: The decision to release White highlights the Dolphins' commitment to investing in young talent and fostering competition within the quarterback position.

#dolphins #nfl