In a significant development for the National Football League, Mark Gronowski, a quarterback who previously spent time with the Miami Dolphins, has officially joined the Houston Texans' practice squad. This marks a new chapter for the decorated college athlete, who brings a history of success and a unique skill set to the Texans' roster. The move follows a dynamic offseason for the Dolphins, characterized by substantial changes to their quarterback depth chart.
The Miami Dolphins' quarterback situation has been particularly fluid this offseason. They decided to part ways with their Pro Bowl quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, despite a substantial guaranteed contract. In a major strategic shift, the Dolphins then secured free agent Malik Willis with a three-year, $67 million deal. Following the 2026 NFL Draft, they further bolstered their quarterback pool by signing Mark Gronowski, the most successful quarterback in college football history, as an undrafted free agent. These rapid changes underscored the team's commitment to reshaping its offensive leadership.
Initially, the Dolphins' quarterback room featured Malik Willis, Quinn Ewers, Cam Miller, and Mark Gronowski. However, as the preseason progressed, the roster continued to evolve. Quinn Ewers was traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars, while Cam Miller and Mark Gronowski were released. The Dolphins then acquired Kyle McCord from the Packers and re-signed Gronowski to their practice squad. Yet, this reunion was short-lived, as the team later claimed Brady Cook via the waiver wire, leading to Gronowski's subsequent release once more. Gronowski's journey with the Dolphins was marked by these repeated signings and releases, including a brief reinstatement after Quinn Ewers sustained a groin injury during training camp.
Now, Mark Gronowski's tenure with the Dolphins has concluded, but his NFL aspirations continue with the Houston Texans. NFL reporter Aaron Wilson confirmed the signing on X, highlighting Gronowski's impressive college accolades. He was described as a former East-West Shrine Bowl offensive MVP, an FCS All-American, and a Walter Payton award winner. His college career statistics are notable, boasting 12,049 passing yards, 103 touchdowns, and only 27 interceptions. Dolphins Wire's Mike Masala reported that Gronowski is expected to serve as the Texans' third-string quarterback, supporting C.J. Stroud and Davis Mills.
During his brief preseason stint with the Dolphins, Gronowski showcased his abilities in two appearances against the New York Giants and Atlanta Falcons. He completed 46.2% of his passes for 98 yards. His performance, while limited, hinted at the potential that made him such a standout in the FCS.
The Dolphins' current quarterback landscape centers around Malik Willis, who has solidified his position as the starter due to his growth and development. The team's challenges in securing a reliable backup led to the trade of Quinn Ewers to the Jacksonville Jaguars for a 2028 sixth-round draft pick, which was then used to acquire Kyle McCord from the Green Bay Packers. McCord, a former Syracuse player, previously worked with Miami's pass game coordinator Kevin Patullo in Philadelphia. The Dolphins also added Brady Cook, who started four games for the New York Jets at the end of the 2025 season, to their practice squad.
The Dolphins are optimistic about Willis's potential, despite him being an unproven commodity as a starting quarterback in the NFL and now on his third team in five seasons. Alain Poupart of Dolphins on SI noted Willis's tantalizing performances in his previous two seasons with the Green Bay Packers. Poupart highlighted Willis's powerful arm, his capacity to execute diverse throws, and his agility in the pocket, which allows him to extend plays. This unique combination of skills, Poupart suggests, brings a dynamic element to the Dolphins' offense that they may not have experienced before. The hope is that Willis can lead the team effectively, minimizing the need to rely heavily on backup quarterbacks this season.
