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ESPN Predicts 3 Miami Dolphins Rookies to Start Week 1

Austin Jackson USC

Rookie quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has been the most hyped Miami Dolphins draft pick, but others rookies could have a chance to play earlier.

Currently, Tagovailoa is the backup behind veteran Ryan Fitzpatrick. He is also recovering from hip surgery in November.

In a bold prediction, one ESPN reporter is speculating that three Dolphins rookies will start in Week 1, but Tagovailoa won’t not be one of them.

“This unique offseason will likely give advantages to veterans over rookies, but the Dolphins’ roster was slim on talent, particularly in the trenches, so first-round pick Austin Jackson (left tackle) and second-round pick Robert Hunt (right guard or tackle) are my picks to earn starting roles from the jump,” ESPN’s Cameron Wolfe wrote. “Rookies Noah Igbinoghene (nickel cornerback), Raekwon Davis (defensive tackle) and Brandon Jones (safety) all can make a case to be Week 1 starters with a strong training camp, and the projection here is that at least one does.

“Tagovailoa is the most high-profile Dolphins rookie, but the presence of trusted veteran Ryan Fitzpatrick and his familiarity with offensive coordinator Chan Gailey might put the team’s No. 5 pick on the bench to start the season. That isn’t a knock on Tagovailoa, either. He’s coming off a serious hip injury, and his little time with the coaching staff means patience is the best plan.”

This prediction likely has more to do with the depth of the Dolphins’ rookie class than it does about Tagovailoa.

Jackson and Hunt were both drafted early at a huge position of need. Igbinoghene, Davis and Jones are also needed, as the Dolphins finished 30th in total defense last season.

Tagovailoa is the most important player at the most important position moving forward, but keep an eye on the other rookies as training camp begins and the season nears.