Fitzpatrick told reporters on Thursday that he “loved watching (Tagovailoa) in college” and has already met with him via Zoom. The 37-year-old says he has been conducting video chats with Tagovailoa, Josh Rosen and Jake Rudock.
Dolphins’ Fitzpatrick, in ongoing call with local media, said he’s helping Tua/Rosen/Rudock in Zoom meetings, explaining to them his thinking as plays unfold.
“I’m excited for [Tua] to be here. I loved watching him in college.” Said Gailey first OC to “truly believe in me.”— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) May 21, 2020
Dolphins are limiting Zoom meetings to small groups, with players at one or 2 positions working together on the computer. Ryan Fitzpatrick said “that’s what’s been most effective for us” and “productive” but “not perfect by any means.”
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) May 21, 2020
Fitzpatrick acknowledged the obvious, which is that his goal is to win the starting job heading into the season. However, he stressed the importance of quarterbacks helping one another and said he is willing to assist Tagovailoa any way he can.
Fitzpatrick on Tua: “I’m as competitive as they come. I want to go out there and start…”
Added: “I know in order for our team to be successful, whoever’s playing, that quarterback room has to be successful.”
Wants to be his cheerleader and help him in any way he can.
— Ruthie Polinsky (@ruthiepolinsky) May 21, 2020
The Dolphins were accused of tanking all offseason last year, but they ended up surprising the league by winning five games. Fitzpatrick was a big reason for that, as he became a steadying presence for the team and threw for 3,529 yards, 20 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. Tagovailoa has already become wildly popular with the fans, and the Dolphins would love if he did enough to win the Week 1 starting job. If he can’t, Fitzpatrick is the perfect bridge quarterback.
