Dolphins coach Tony Sparano says quarterback Chad Henne will face stiff competition for the starting position entering next season. "I realize that (with) the quarterback position, everybody wants to have it (happen) yesterday, and that's the problem. It really is, but it comes with the turf," Sparano said. "You have to go back through the 900-and-something snaps that this guy has played and (ask), did he show progress? Did he get better in different areas? Yeah, he did. Now, did he stay the same, or not get better in some areas? Maybe that's true, too. "Does he deserve the opportunity (to complete for a starting spot)? No question about it. He deserves the opportunity, and we'll see where that goes." Sparano would like to see Miami's vertical passing game make strides, and Henne's deep ball needs work, according to the coach. "When you get the green light, you've got to make the plays, and Chad will tell you that," Sparano said.