There is no doubt that many are paying attention to the starting quarterback battle in Miami this upcoming NFL season (if there is one). The battle involves incumbent starter Ryan Fitzpatrick and first round draft pick Tua Tagovailoa.
And while we all want a healthy battle, we are sad to say that the mother (are we allowed to call her that) of Ryan Fitzpatrick has just passed away.
Fitzpatrick was a late scratch for Saturday’s scrimmage at Hard Rock Stadium after she passed earlier in the morning, coach Brian Flores said.
What Happened?
Fitzpatrick went out with the team to stretch, but as they broke to begin individual drills, Flores approached Fitzpatrick. They had what appeared to be an emotional conversation and then Flores placed his arm around the quarterback as they walked toward the tunnel.
Flores returned to the field without Fitzpatrick.
Flores informed the team before the scrimmage, and they all took a knee in prayer.
Fitzpatrick said in a statement released by the team. “On behalf of my family, I want to thank everyone who has reached out with well wishes. It truly means a lot to us.”
What is the Plan Moving Forward?
Fitzpatrick missed practice for what Flores called “personal reasons.” The quarterback returned the next day and jokingly clarified he wasn’t retiring, he didn’t have the coronavirus and his wife wasn’t pregnant — three of the most common speculations for his absence at the time.
Fitz is expected to be the Dolphins Week 1 starter. He has had a strong training camp during which he’s been one the team’s top leaders. It’s yet to be seen how long Fitzpatrick will be away from the team.
Flores said it’s “hard to say” whether Fitzpatrick will be back in time for their Sept. 13 opener at New England, but they have contingency plans if he isn’t.
