Mike McDaniel has already noticed progress in Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa as they enter their third year together.
McDaniel is particularly impressed by how Tagovailoa has become more comfortable taking on a leadership role.
“There’s certain guys that have an ‘it’ factor,” McDaniel said Wednesday. “You know when a team believes in their quarterback, quite honestly. And the appreciation for what his skills were (before), I think were strong, but nothing compared to the respect and regard his teammates have (now).”
Even if others haven’t always noticed, Tagovailoa said he’s always had it in him.
“I’ve had the ‘it’ factor,” Tagovailoa said ahead of Miami’s season opener. “I’ve had the ‘it’ factor since I was in high school and (going) into college and coming here. That’s how I’ve always viewed myself — as going out and competing, very nice, very cool, calm, and collected.
But like inside, just very competitive. So a lot of the guys know how I am, I guess it’s just only now showing that I’m becoming a little more vocal.”
His teammates noticed his increased willingness to speak up during the offseason. They appreciate following his lead, especially as he aims to lead Miami to its first playoff win in 24 years.
His leadership has been evident in practice, where he ensures even walkthroughs are conducted properly and clearly communicates his expectations.
“Tua has done a great job of over-communicating exactly what he wants as far as details and routes,” receiver Tyreek Hill said. “And Mike, our head coach, he has given him the keys to the car which is even more of a beautiful thing.”
Tagovailoa said he didn’t enter his fourth NFL season with the aim of being more vocal, but it naturally resulted from showing more of his personality.
“Finding himself as a person, that’s been front and center with the team,” McDaniel said, “and so he’s being him.”
