Report: Miami Dolphins Sign QB Tyler Huntley
The Miami Dolphins have made an intriguing move in the free-agent market, signing quarterback Tyler Huntley to add depth to their roster and provide insurance at the all-important quarterback position. Huntley, known for his athleticism and versatility, brings a unique skill set to the Dolphins that could prove valuable as the team navigates a competitive AFC East division. This signing is a significant move for the Dolphins, who are looking to build on their recent success and strengthen their quarterback room behind starter Tua Tagovailoa.
### Background: Huntley's Journey to the NFL
Tyler Huntley’s journey to the NFL was not a straightforward one. Born on February 3, 1998, in Dania Beach, Florida, Huntley attended Hallandale High School, where he emerged as one of the top dual-threat quarterbacks in the state. His athleticism, combined with his ability to extend plays with his legs and throw on the run, made him a highly sought-after recruit.
Huntley chose to play college football at the University of Utah, where he steadily developed into one of the top quarterbacks in the Pac-12 Conference. Over his four years with the Utes (2016–2019), Huntley showcased his talent, particularly during his senior season when he threw for over 3,000 yards, 19 touchdowns, and just four interceptions while also rushing for nearly 300 yards and five scores. His performance earned him All-Pac-12 honors, and he finished his college career with a 23-10 record as a starter.
Despite his success at Utah, Huntley went undrafted in the 2020 NFL Draft, a disappointment for the talented quarterback. However, he quickly signed with the Baltimore Ravens as an undrafted free agent, joining a team known for its commitment to dual-threat quarterbacks and innovative offensive schemes under head coach John Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Greg Roman.
### Huntley’s Time with the Ravens
Huntley’s time in Baltimore allowed him to learn behind star quarterback Lamar Jackson, a fellow dual-threat QB with a similar playing style. As a backup to Jackson, Huntley got his first taste of NFL action during the 2021 season when Jackson missed time due to injury. In his first significant playing time, Huntley demonstrated poise and potential, leading the Ravens to several competitive games, including a near-upset of the Green Bay Packers.
In his brief stints as a starter, Huntley completed 65.6% of his passes for 1,081 yards, three touchdowns, and four interceptions in 2021. He also added 294 rushing yards and two touchdowns on the ground. Though the Ravens ultimately missed the playoffs, Huntley’s performances were enough to solidify his status as a capable backup with starter potential.
During the 2022 season, Huntley once again filled in for an injured Lamar Jackson, showing flashes of brilliance with his ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground. While his passing numbers were modest (658 yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions in five starts), his ability to run the Ravens’ run-heavy, option-based offense kept the team competitive in Jackson’s absence. Despite his limited action, Huntley’s athleticism and decision-making skills were on full display, proving that he could function as more than just a backup in the right system.
### The Dolphins’ Quarterback Situation
The Miami Dolphins’ decision to sign Tyler Huntley comes at a crucial time for the franchise, as they aim to solidify their quarterback depth chart heading into the 2024 season. The Dolphins have high hopes for their young franchise quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, but his injury history has raised concerns about the team’s ability to stay competitive if he were to miss time. Tagovailoa missed several games in the 2022 season due to concussions, and while he has worked diligently to improve his durability, the Dolphins’ front office understands the importance of having a reliable backup.
Before Huntley’s signing, the Dolphins’ quarterback depth chart included Tua Tagovailoa, veteran Mike White, and rookie Skylar Thompson. While Mike White has experience as a starter during his time with the New York Jets, Huntley’s addition gives Miami another mobile quarterback who can keep the offense running smoothly if needed. Huntley’s playing style is similar to that of Tagovailoa, which could make for a seamless transition should Tua be sidelined for any period.
### Why Huntley is a Good Fit for Miami
One of the primary reasons the Dolphins targeted Huntley is his fit within head coach Mike McDaniel’s offensive scheme. McDaniel, a disciple of the Kyle Shanahan coaching tree, runs a system that emphasizes motion, misdirection, and a zone-running attack. While the scheme is built around precision passing, it also benefits from having a quarterback who can extend plays and create opportunities with his legs.
Huntley’s dual-threat abilities make him a natural fit for this type of offense. His experience running option plays in Baltimore, combined with his familiarity with run-pass option (RPO) concepts from his college days, should allow him to pick up McDaniel’s system quickly. Additionally, Huntley’s ability to keep defenses honest with his rushing ability could open up more opportunities for the Dolphins’ talented playmakers, including wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, and running back Raheem Mostert.
Another factor that makes Huntley a good fit in Miami is his familiarity with pressure situations. During his time in Baltimore, Huntley was often thrown into the fire in critical moments, and he proved that he could perform under pressure. The Dolphins are expected to contend for a playoff spot in the loaded AFC, and having a backup quarterback who can step in and lead the team in high-pressure situations is invaluable.
### The Importance of Backup Quarterbacks in Today’s NFL
In recent years, the role of the backup quarterback has become more important than ever. Injuries to starting quarterbacks are not uncommon, and teams with quality backups often find themselves better positioned to weather the storm. The NFL’s emphasis on quarterback safety, combined with the physical nature of the game, has led to an increased focus on depth at the position.
The Dolphins understand this reality all too well. In 2022, they were forced to rely on multiple quarterbacks due to injuries, including Tagovailoa’s concussion issues and a rib injury. While Tagovailoa is undoubtedly the franchise’s centerpiece, the Dolphins’ front office has made it clear that they want to be prepared for any eventuality. Signing Huntley is a proactive move that reflects the team’s commitment to maintaining a high level of competitiveness, even if their starting quarterback is unavailable.
In addition to providing injury insurance, a quality backup like Huntley can also push the starting quarterback to improve. Competition breeds success, and having a capable quarterback behind Tagovailoa could motivate him to elevate his game further.
### The AFC East Landscape
The Dolphins’ decision to bolster their quarterback room with Huntley also comes in the context of a highly competitive AFC East division. The Buffalo Bills, led by superstar quarterback Josh Allen, are the current favorites to win the division, but the New York Jets and New England Patriots are not far behind. The Jets made headlines by trading for veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, while the Patriots are hoping for a bounce-back season under Bill Belichick.
For the Dolphins to compete in this division, they will need to be firing on all cylinders, including having depth at key positions like quarterback. While Tagovailoa is expected to be the team’s leader on offense, Huntley’s presence gives the Dolphins a security blanket in case of injury. Additionally, Huntley’s ability to mimic dual-threat quarterbacks like Allen and Rodgers in practice could help Miami prepare for their divisional matchups.
### What Huntley Brings to the Table
1. **Athleticism:** Huntley is an exceptional athlete, with the ability to escape pressure and extend plays with his legs. His rushing ability makes him a dual threat, capable of making defenses account for him in both the passing and running games.
2. **Poise Under Pressure:** Huntley has shown the ability to stay calm in high-pressure situations, particularly during his time with the Ravens when he stepped in for an injured Lamar Jackson. His experience in tight games will be valuable in Miami’s competitive division.
3. **Familiarity with RPO Concepts:** Huntley ran RPO concepts extensively in college and during his time in Baltimore. This familiarity will allow him to pick up Mike McDaniel’s system quickly and execute the offense effectively.
4. **Versatility:** Huntley’s versatility as a passer and runner allows the Dolphins to get creative with their play-calling. Whether it’s designed quarterback runs, play-action passes, or improvisational plays, Huntley gives the Dolphins more flexibility on offense.
5. **Leadership Qualities:** Though he has not been a full-time starter in the NFL, Huntley has demonstrated leadership qualities in the locker room and on the field. His maturity and work ethic will be a positive influence in the Dolphins’ quarterback room.
### Potential Challenges
While there is much to like about the Dolphins’ signing of Huntley, there are also challenges that come with it. Huntley’s limited experience as a full-time starter raises questions about how he would perform over an extended period. While he has flashed potential in small sample sizes, sustaining success over a full season remains an open question.
Additionally, the transition from Baltimore’s run-heavy offense to Miami’s more balanced attack could take some adjustment. Huntley will need to develop chemistry with Miami’s talented receiving corps and prove that he can consistently deliver accurate passes in key situations.
### Conclusion
The Miami Dolphins’ signing of Tyler Huntley is a savvy move that addresses one of the most important positions on the team: backup quarterback. Huntley’s athleticism, poise under pressure, and familiarity with RPO concepts make him an ideal fit for Mike McDaniel’s offense. While Huntley is not expected to unseat
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