Miami Dolphins camp battle previews the quarterbacks

The Miami Dolphins are less than two weeks away from the start of training camp and quarterbacks are going to be an interesting unit to watch.

When the Dolphins take the field, veterans on the 25th and rookie on the 18th, many believe that the Dolphins will be one of the worst teams in the NFL. A lot of that is predicated on the uncertainty of Ryan Tannehill and his recovery from knee injury. Those same national media types cite the lack of depth at the position.

While we know that Ryan Tannehill is the starter we also know that there is no challenger behind him. No rookie waiting in the wings to jump in if Tannehill struggles. Adam Gase and whomever else made the decision to not draft a quarterback last April, are putting their careers in the hands, and knee of Ryan Tannehill.

Behind Tannehill however is where the battle for 2nd team begins. Miami signed Brock Osweiler this past off-season to a one year deal. They also claimed Bryce Petty off waivers from the Jets and kept David Fales on the roster as well. Three players fighting for one position. It is unlikely that the Dolphins keep three quarterbacks.

Of the three, Osweiler would cost the most to release. His contract is such that most of the 2018 salary is guaranteed. If released, just over $600,000 would be on the Dolphins books with a savings of only $90,000. It’s not much but compared to the other two who carry no dead cap space if released, it could be significant. Especially if the play on the field is equal.

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The longshot in this group seems to be Bryce Petty. Miami knows what they have in David Fales and last season when he played late he showed some good qualities. Enough Miami opted to keep around. Fales is eligible for the practice squad and it’s unlikely that he would be claimed off waivers if released. Still, don’t rule him out.

Osweiler is inconsistent and that could show during training camp and especially during pre-season. Osweiler is likely to play significantly during pre-season and could see starting reps. He could alternate those reps as well with Petty and Fales. This is where things will get down and dirty.

If given the chance, Fales could outplay Osweiler in pre-season and that could tip the balance into his favor for a roster spot. If nothing else, it is worth keeping an eye on once camp arrives. The battle to start isn’t happening this year but the battle for the back-up job should be wide open.