Report: Dolphins interested in Herbert, don't view Tua as 'slam dunk'

The Miami Dolphins have long been believed to be one of the most likely landing spots for Tua Tagovailoa, but the former Alabama quarterback has competition for the AFC East team's interest and No. 5 overall pick.

Miami doesn't view Tagovailoa as a "slam dunk" near the top of the draft, and its opinion of ex-Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert is "increasingly positive," sources told the Miami Herald's Armando Salguero.

The Dolphins are concerned about Tagovailoa's injury history and long-term durability, according to Salguero.

Tagovailoa is reportedly expected to make a full recovery from a fractured and dislocated hip he suffered in November. However, he also dealt with various other injuries during his college career, including multiple ankle ailments.

Herbert, meanwhile, impressed scouts with both his performances during Senior Bowl week and commital to attending the game in January, sources told Salguero. The signal-caller also possesses prototypical size at 6-foot-6 and 237 pounds.

The 6-foot Tagovailoa won't throw for teams at the NFL Scouting Combine, which is set to take place from Feb. 27 to March 1. Instead, the quarterback will perform in front of scouts at his pro day in April.

Heisman-winning passer Joe Burrow is widely expected to be taken first overall by the Cincinnati Bengals.

In theScore's latest mock draft, the Dolphins snagged Herbert despite the availability of Tagovailoa, who was projected to be drafted immediately after to the Los Angeles Chargers.

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