Preseason depth charts are notoriously malleable.
But the Dolphins made an interesting declaration in theirs, listing David Garrard as their starting quarterback, with Matt Moore and Ryan Tannehill behind him.
Head coach Joe Philbin said the depth chart is fluid, according to Omar Kelly of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, pointing out that it could even change before Friday’s exhbition opener against Tampa Bay.
“It’s the starting point. It’s a fluid situation,” Philbin said. “In no way shape or form have decisions been finalized.”
At least Philbin acknowledged having a hand in it. In some cities, the depth charts PR departments put in releases may not have any coaching input at all, as they just go by what they see in practice.
As for the Dolphins situation, they’ve rotated the veteran quarterbacks with the starters, though it seems inevitable Ryan Tannehill’s going to be in the first chair sooner rather than later.
The chart also showed cornerback Richard Marshall ahead of Vontae Davis, replacing a guy who has started 36 games the last three seasons. Marshall was signed to shore up the nickel package, but his pushing Davis shouldn’t be that much of a surprise. Marshall’s an aggressive player and a solid tackler.