05 July 2023 , 21:43
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Miami Dolphins star Jaylen Waddle has given his full backing to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa ahead of their exciting season.
The Hawaiian quarterback had an incredibly strong year last season - ranking as one of the best quarterbacks in the league in passer rating and yards per throw while accruing 25 passing touchdowns to just eight interceptions.
However, he suffered three separate concussions, with some neuroscientists suggesting that's enough for him to consider retiring from the sport.
But Tagovailoa has spoken confidently on coming back from the injuries - even taking judo lessons to prevent himself from injury in attempts to fall and land as safely as possible.
And if Tagovailoa is confident in himself, then his wide receiver Waddle certainly is. Waddle has played with both Tagovailoa and Mac Jones - and he knows how good his quarterback is, and can continue to improve upon.
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When asked on what makes him so special, Waddle told NBC Sports : "His ball placement. I think everybody sees it, knowing exactly where to place the ball so his receivers can not just catch it, but catch it and run with it. That’s what makes Tua Tua.
"Tua’s a great guy. We’ve got years in with us playing together, so it’s always good being familiar with your quarterback, from the college game to the NFL game.
Jaylen Waddle has been one of the best receivers in the league since being drafted, and playing with Tagovailoa"It’s like riding a bike, getting back playing with him. It’s fun. You don’t have to learn quarterback tendencies when you’ve already played with him."
The Dolphins had one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL last season, with both Tyreek Hill and Waddle combining for 3,000 receiving yards and 16 touchdowns.
And it's clear the franchise see him as their long-term quarterback after picking up his fifth-year option on his contract - while turning down the opportunity to go after the likes of Aaron Rodgers and Lamar Jackson who were available this off-season.
Tagovailoa, Joe Burrow and Justin Herbert all are yet to receive their contract extensions after being drafted in 2020, but Jalen Hurts has - while briefly becoming the highest-paid player in the league.
After making a number of huge additions to their roster including superstar cornerback Jalen Ramsey and solid linebacker David Long Jr - the Dolphins are among the favourites to make it to the Super Bowl.