The Miami Dolphins are poised to welcome back starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa after he missed time due to a concussion sustained in Week 2 against the Buffalo Bills. While Tua’s return is significant for the team, concerns about his long-term health remain, especially since another concussion could potentially end his career. Given this risk, the Dolphins might explore other quarterback options to ensure a backup plan for the future.
Dave Canales said five weeks ago the Panthers weren't considering trading Bryce Young. Asked if that has changed, Canales said: "Again, hypotheticals." Added that Dan Morgan and Brandt Tilis are having those types of conversations.
— Joe Person (@josephperson) October 21, 2024
Current backup options, such as Skylar Thompson and Tyler Huntley, have not proven to be reliable alternatives. This is why the Dolphins could be interested in acquiring Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young. FOX Sports’ Greg Auman speculated that Young might be a viable target for Miami before the trade deadline on November 5. Auman suggested that the Dolphins could trade a 2025 third- and sixth-round pick to the Panthers for Young.
For Miami, the potential acquisition of Young would provide an inexpensive and low-risk backup option, especially given the uncertainty around Tagovailoa’s health. Young’s contract, which includes two years and $10 million after the current season, makes him a relatively affordable option for the Dolphins. Although the Panthers have been hesitant about trading Young, head coach Dave Canales recently indicated some openness to the idea, especially since Young has struggled during his tenure in Carolina.
Young was benched earlier in the season due to poor performance, and while he is set to start again for Carolina, this decision is only due to Andy Dalton’s injury. The fact that the Panthers have kept Young on the bench despite Dalton’s recent struggles signals that Young could be available for a trade. Miami would need to believe that head coach Mike McDaniel could unlock more potential in Young, particularly with the Dolphins’ superior offensive weapons.
While Young has not been impressive in Carolina, his rookie contract still has value, and he could provide Miami with a better backup option if Tagovailoa’s injury issues persist. However, Auman’s proposed trade may be too steep for Young’s current value. A third-round pick alone might suffice for the trade, as Young’s stock has taken a considerable hit since his poor performances.
Overall, the Dolphins face a delicate situation in ensuring quarterback depth as Tagovailoa returns. Acquiring Young could be a proactive move, providing Miami with both insurance for the future and an upgrade over their current backup options.
