Miami Dolphins General Manager Jon-Eric Sullivan has provided a clear rationale for trading quarterback Quinn Ewers to the Jacksonville Jaguars for a sixth-round draft pick, stating that the team needed a fresh start and that performance did not meet expectations.
"When I made the decision, I was set," Sullivan told reporters on Monday. "I think he needed a fresh start. I think we needed a fresh start. Look, this is a performance-based business, and it was not getting done at the level it needed to get done at. Quinn knew that."
Ewers, who started for the Dolphins last season after Tua Tagovailoa was benched, threw for 622 yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions. His notable performance included a 14-for-22 outing for 172 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions in a 20-17 victory over the Buccaneers.
However, Ewers also had a challenging NFL preseason debut, completing 4-of-16 passes for 63 yards and losing two fumbles. This past preseason, he completed 1-of-8 passes for 27 yards and an interception. A groin injury sustained in training camp also limited his practice repetitions.
Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley represent a new leadership in the Dolphins organization, following the dismissals of coach Mike McDaniel and GM Chris Grier last season. While the coaching staff reportedly remained supportive of Ewers, multiple reports indicated dissatisfaction from the front office.
The Dolphins simultaneously acquired quarterback Kyle McCord from the Green Bay Packers in a separate deal involving another sixth-round pick, signaling a shift in their quarterback room.
Ewers is expected to join the Jaguars as a backup behind starter Trevor Lawrence. Jaguars coach Liam Coen expressed enthusiasm for Ewers' potential, noting, "We really like the guy. He gets the quarterback position. Really appreciate what he put on tape in Miami last year. Beat Tampa in one of those games back at home. He’s got arm talent. Now it’s about getting him onboarded and up to speed."