"Miami Dolphins coach Tony Sparano preaches competition, and says he wants it at every position on his football team.

And despite his designation that Chad Henne will enter the 2010 season as the Dolphins starter, and veteran Chad Pennington will be the No. 3, he's optimistic the group will remain competitive.

After all, Sparano expects a fierce battle for the No. 2 spot between Tyler Thigpen and Pat White, if both continue their tenure with the Dolphins, and are still at their present position.

During Tuesday's talk at the NFL owner's meeting, Sparano said he thought bringing Pennington back was important from a leadership, and teaching standpoint.

"I see value with Chad Pennington in a lot of places. I see value in the way he teaches. The relationships he has with that group of players. The leadership he brings to our entire football team, and the fact this guy goes out there every day and competes his tail off," Sparano said. "I know exactly what I'm getting with Chad Pennington when we bring him back."

Sparano said Pennington's rehab from his surgically repaired shoulder is at the point he can throw a 15-yard out right now. However, he didn't say Pennington can throw it with zip at this point."