In the modern NFL, the term “triplets” harkens back to the illustrious Dallas Cowboys era headlined by Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith, and Michael Irvin. As we dive into the 2024 NFL season, the conversation pivots to which team boasts the premier trio of skill position players.
A focal point of this discussion surrounds the Miami Dolphins’ formidable combination of Tua Tagovailoa, Raheem Mostert, and Tyreek Hill. But, the burning question remains: How do they fare in the league-wide rankings?
As teams gear up for the upcoming season, Matt Verderame of Sports Illustrated has meticulously ranked every NFL team’s top quarterback, running back, and wide receiver or tight end, placing a significant emphasis on the quarterback’s impact. Surprisingly, the Dolphins’ star-studded trio landed at the 11th spot, despite being among the elite groups that featured three Pro Bowl selections last season.
Evidently, the Pro Bowl served as a testament to the Dolphins’ offensive prowess, with Tagovailoa, Mostert, and Hill all earning starting nods – a distinction shared only with the San Francisco 49ers. It’s noteworthy that only four teams, including the Dolphins, saw their “triplets” achieve Pro Bowl honors, with the Philadelphia Eagles reaching this milestone under a unique circumstance due to Jalen Hurts’ late addition as a Super Bowl participant.
Verderame’s top 10 list showcased the Philadelphia Eagles, Kansas City Chiefs, L.A. Rams, 49ers, Baltimore Ravens, New York Jets, Cincinnati Bengals, Detroit Lions, Atlanta Falcons, and Buffalo Bills as possessing the most elite triplets. Notable mentions include the inclusion of fresh faces among these elite groups, with Kirk Cousins joining the Falcons, Zack Moss becoming a key component for the Bengals, and Derrick Henry bolstering the Ravens’ offense.
The Dolphins’ speed on the field has been unrivaled, thanks largely to Tyreek Hill, who led the league with 1,799 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns. The dynamic backfield duo of Mostert and De’Von Achane each showcased the potential for 1,000-yard seasons, while Tagovailoa clinched the league passing title in 2023, despite lingering doubts about his long-term viability as the team’s quarterback.
The Dolphins had not seen such prolific “triplets” since the days of Bob Griese, Larry Csonka, and Paul Warfield in the early ’70s, marking a historic achievement for the franchise. Given their recent success and Pro Bowl recognitions, many argue that it’s unjust for Miami’s triplets not to be ranked among the NFL’s top 10.
Regardless of their current standing, the Dolphins’ trio of Tagovailoa, Mostert, and Hill is primed to rewrite the team’s record books and challenge the perception of rankings as they set their sights on the upcoming NFL season.