Dolphins Sign Former Ravens QB Tyler Huntley as Tua Tagovailoa Remains Sidelined with Concussion
The Miami Dolphins have signed backup quarterback Tyler Huntley off the Baltimore Ravens’ practice squad, as starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa remains in the NFL’s concussion protocol. The decision was confirmed by head coach Mike McDaniel, who said Huntley was brought in to bolster the team’s depth, following the injury to Tagovailoa in last week’s 31-10 loss to the Buffalo Bills.
Tagovailoa, who has now suffered the third diagnosed concussion of his professional career, was forced to exit the game after a third-quarter collision with Bills defensive back Damar Hamlin. On the play, Tagovailoa ran for a first down and, instead of sliding, lowered his shoulder into Hamlin, leading to the head injury. Tagovailoa exhibited signs typically associated with a traumatic brain injury as he lay on the field, prompting immediate concern from players on both teams.
Skylar Thompson, the Dolphins’ current backup quarterback, stepped in for Tagovailoa during the game, completing 8 of 14 passes for 80 yards. Despite Thompson’s struggles, McDaniel remains confident in his ability to lead the team in Tagovailoa’s absence. Nevertheless, the Dolphins moved quickly to bring in Huntley as an additional option at quarterback.
Huntley, known by his nickname “Snoop,” has previous NFL experience, having stepped in as a backup for Lamar Jackson during his time with the Ravens. He was initially signed by the Cleveland Browns as a free agent in March but was released in August during roster cuts. The Ravens later brought him back, though he remained on their practice squad until the Dolphins’ recent acquisition.
Huntley’s tenure with the Ravens was highlighted by his performances in the 2021 and 2022 seasons, where he started 10 games in place of an injured Jackson. He posted a 3-7 record in those starts, throwing for 1,957 yards with eight touchdowns and seven interceptions. Despite his limited experience as a starter, Huntley was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2022.
McDaniel praised Huntley’s leadership and experience, particularly noting how he successfully stepped into the role of leading a team when called upon. “It’s been apparent from afar, and then having some coaches that have been around him, shoot, he was replacing the league MVP, and you could tell from far away that he was a guy that the team absolutely believed could lead them to victory. I think that’s a very huge tangible thing for a non-QB1, necessarily,” McDaniel said.
Despite the signing, McDaniel clarified that Huntley will not immediately contend for the starting role. Skylar Thompson remains the team’s go-to option and is expected to start when the Dolphins face the Seattle Seahawks this Sunday. “I think his game has developed since he’s had a starting opportunity in the National Football League,” McDaniel said of Thompson, referencing his performances as a rookie in 2022 when Tagovailoa was sidelined by other injuries. “I think all of his teammates can feel his command and his growth, and I think he put together some winning football as a rookie.”
Huntley’s addition comes at a critical juncture for the Dolphins, as uncertainty continues to loom over Tagovailoa’s immediate future in the NFL. McDaniel has emphasized the importance of allowing Tagovailoa to make decisions regarding his career, given his history of head injuries. “As far as Tua’s career is concerned, I think it’s an utmost priority of mine for Tua to speak on Tua’s career,” McDaniel said, adding that the quarterback is currently consulting with neurologists about his health.
Tagovailoa’s previous concussions occurred during the 2022 season, leading to heightened concerns about his long-term health. His most recent injury has sparked speculation about whether the Dolphins’ franchise quarterback could end up on injured reserve. However, McDaniel was reluctant to comment on the possibility, saying, “That’s gonna be driven by medical experts, and when we get the appropriate information and discuss with Tua, then Chris (general manager Chris Grier) and I can discuss that. Not quite ready to make a distinction on that.”
For now, the Dolphins are focused on the upcoming matchup against Seattle, with Thompson expected to start and Huntley providing added security at the quarterback position. As Tagovailoa’s status remains uncertain, Miami’s coaching staff is ensuring they have the necessary depth to navigate the remainder of the season without their star quarterback.
While Huntley’s role is clear for now, his presence will offer the Dolphins valuable experience and versatility behind Thompson, as the team looks to remain competitive in the AFC East.