Tua was the expected and unexpected pick
The Top 5 Picks in the 2020 NFL Draft went almost exactly as Jimmy Burbon predicted… aside from a different O-linemen being taken by the Giants. Not too shabby, Jimmy. But, the real news is the Miami Dolphins selected Tua Tagovailoa with their 5th Overall pick.
Tua was both the expected and unexpected move by the Dolphins.
To be truthful, I was disappointed they didn’t select Isaiah Simmons, who is the perfect player for the Dolphins defense. This kid could very well be a generational player.
Now don’t get me wrong: I get the Tua pick, I do!
Tua has just about everything you could ask for from a quarterback prospect. Tua even has that ‘good guy’ charm like Tim Tebow, but with top-flight throwing talent. He’s the type of kid you root hard for. Add to this equation Ross’s love for him, the long list of misses Miami has had at quarterback, and fact that he ‘slipped’ to the 5th pick. and this was the obvious move in retrospect. At least they didn’t trade up to get him.
Despite all Tua’s talent, intelligence, character, and leadership, if his long injury history doesn’t change the Phins and their fans will regret drafting him.
You can bet with the best bookie software sites that Grier and Flores will be defined by this pick. This selection will either end up being regarded as a brilliant move or an utter disaster. There isn’t a middle ground with this selection. Considering the value of the 5th pick, the excellent players passed on for him, the 2nd round pick used to acquire Josh Rosen, and the investment of time and commitment that will be given, it’s boom or bust with Tua.
BUT! Let’s be clear: If Tua stays healthy and ends up even being very good, this is a huge win for this franchise and their fans. Even door #2 of Tua having a short career but leading the Phins to a single championship would make drafting him a winner.
Anything less than either of these scenarios is a loss for the Phins.
I guess in truth, I’m a jaded Phin fan who has a hard time believing Tua will stay healthy. This is why ‘redshirting’ Tua in 2020 is a foregone conclusion. No?
It has to be. At least the Dolphins will have another draft to build an offensive line to protect him. And maybe a quick rhythm scheme like the Pats used with Brady and the Saints use with Brees will be just what the doctor ordered?
Maybe Tua ends up like Frank Gore, who tore two ACLs in college and was an iron man ever since?! Maybe nice guys don’t always finish last and Tua will have a heroic tale of freeing a cursed franchise?
It can happen!
Hey, injury concern or not, at least Tua is the best quarterback prospect to come into Miami since Dan Marino. That’s hopeful and a step in the right direction! It’s really true: You have to be in it to win it! Go Phins!!!