Zach Wilson’s fresh chapter with the Dolphins has already shown some ups and downs.
Barry Jackson from the Miami Herald noted that the former Jets first-round pick had a mixed practice on Tuesday, which included some misfires and even a couple of passes that were intercepted and returned for touchdowns. He described Wilson’s offseason as “uneven.”
The quarterback is on a one-year, $6 million deal as a backup to Tua Tagovailoa, but during practice, linebacker Willie Gay Jr. intercepted a pass that was batted by teammate KJ Britt, according to a report from Miami Herald.
Jackson also mentioned that if cornerback Ethan Bonner managed to snag an interception, it would reflect Wilson’s struggles with the 25-year-old quarterback’s stats from Tuesday.
Despite the shaky performance, Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel is optimistic about Wilson’s potential in this new environment. He acknowledged that Wilson has been through “some tough times” and is looking to see how he can flourish now.
“Typically, individuals who have faced challenges have come out stronger,” McDaniel remarked on Tuesday, adding that being a top-three draft pick in New York certainly has its pressures, and it seems Wilson understands that well.
Wilson’s time with the Jets wasn’t smooth. He had a rookie season that ended with nine touchdowns versus eleven interceptions. He was benched after a poor performance against the Patriots and faced more setbacks following Aaron Rodgers’ arrival in 2023, which intended to reset his career. But Wilson had to step back in when Rodgers suffered a season-ending injury.
Things didn’t get better; the Jets traded Wilson to the Broncos last April, where he spent the 2024 season as a third-string quarterback.
Reflecting on his journey, Wilson expressed a desire to have approached things differently but acknowledged that it’s all part of what shapes his story.
McDaniel, having observed Wilson while he was with the Jets, praised his dedication and arm strength. He pointed out that it’s exciting to watch Wilson develop within the Dolphins’ system, noting that Wilson has remarkable arm talent.
The Dolphins revamped their quarterback lineup this offseason after relying on both Skyler Thompson and Tyler Huntley last year, particularly when Tagovailoa was dealing with injuries.
Miami finished 8-9 last season, missing the playoffs for the first time under McDaniel’s leadership. Considering Tagovailoa’s history of concussions and other injury issues, having a solid backup is crucial for the Dolphins.
Alongside Wilson, Miami also drafted standout Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers in the seventh round of the April 2025 NFL Draft.
The Dolphins will kick off their season against the Colts in week one.
