Dolphins backup plan at QB involves seventh-rounder that new OC is 'big fan' of

This offseason has already brought some massive changes to the Miami Dolphins. Jon-Eric Sullivan is the new general manager, Jeff Hafley is the new head coach, and Bobby Slowik was promoted to be the new offensive coordinator.

Tyreek Hill, Bradley Chubb, and James Daniels were all cut, with Tua Tagovailoa potentially on his way out soon as well. With an open spot at quarterback, the Dolphins' plan at the most important position is a huge question this offseason.

According to Tony Pauline of Essentiallysports.com, the Dolphins' new OC has one option, which, while the backup plan, is someone he is a "big fan" of. That quarterback is seventh-round Texas Longhorns QB Quinn Ewers.

Dolphins OC is 'big fan' of Quinn Ewers as backup plan at QB for 2026

"Bobby Slowik, who was elevated from passing game coordinator to offensive coordinator, is a big fan of Quinn Ewers," Pauline writes.

With Slowik, the Dolphins' play caller and lead offensive mind, favoring Ewers, the former Texas QB might get a chance to start in 2026.

But that seems only to be the case as a backup plan, and not the main plan heading into this offseason. Malik Willis or some other option is likely ahead of Ewers. But, he's still an option for Miami for next season.

"If the Dolphins can't afford to bring in a coveted veteran," Pauline writes, "a source tells me the likely plan includes using Ewers as a starter in 2026 and signing an inexpensive backup, such as Jimmy Garoppolo."

More: ESPN analyst thinks Dolphins' Tua Tagovailoa decision has already been made

Relying on Ewers to be the starter in 2026 isn't what the Dolphins plan on doing this offseason, but it might end up being the case if things don't work out in free agency.

As much as the Dolphins would love to sign Willis, their cap issue could force them to pass on the former Green Bay Packers quarterback.

If Miami cannot find a solid starting quarterback this offseason in free agency or a trade, then Ewers, thanks in part to the support from Slowik, will likely be the starter for 2026.

Ewers might be the Dolphins' starter in 2026. He's made a few starts already, passing for 662 yards and three touchdowns with three interceptions in his limited run in 2025.

While he might not be the long-term answer, the production he showed in 2025 is enough for him to be a bridge quarterback at worst next season.

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