Report: Dolphins to Name Tua Tagovailoa as Starting QB

The Dolphins reportedly will name rookie Tua Tagovailoa as its starting quarterback and move Ryan Fitzpatrick to backup.

The Dolphins will have a new starting quarterback when they return from their bye week.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Miami will name rookie Tua Tagovailoa as its starter and move Ryan Fitzpatrick to backup. 

Tagovailoa made his NFL debut and completed his first career pass in the Dolphins' 24–0 victory over the winless Jets on Sunday. The No. 5 pick in the NFL draft completed two pass attempts for nine yards after he entered during the fourth quarter. 

Fitzpatrick continued to shine on Sunday, completing 18 of 27 passes for 191 yards and three touchdowns. The veteran QB has started all six of Miami's games this season. He beat out Josh Rosen for the starting job in a training camp battle in 2019.

The decision to bench Fitzpatrick comes at a shocking time after his strong start to the season. However, the Dolphins see Tagovailoa as their franchise quarterback to build around. 

Miami drafted Tagovailoa while he continued rehabbing his hip injury, which ended his final season at Alabama in mid-November. The injury added uncertainty to his draft decision, but he decided to forgo his senior season and head to the NFL. By the start of training camp, Tagovailoa was deemed healthy and appeared ready for the season.

Miami will have a bye in Week 7 before hosting the Rams on Nov. 1, giving Tagovailoa two weeks to prepare for his starting role. The Dolphins have gone 3–3 to start of the season.

More From AllDolphins:

• Final NFL Week 6 Observations and Former Dolphins Updates
• Tua Tagovailoa 'Excited' After NFL Debut