Back to the Preseason Updates Landing Page.
One of the best and most comprehensive features we offer every year is our Footballguys Preseason Updates. Every week this month, Bob Henry, Jason Wood, Clayton Gray, and their team of Footballguys Staffers cover every player that matters from every NFL team. It's 32-plus pages of some of the most comprehensive coverage you'll find. It's probably worth the Footballguys Premium Subscription by itself.
Updates from Week 4
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's Preseason Insights: What You Need To Know This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Joe Schad of the Palm Beach Post believes Tua Tagovailoa is set for his best season, noting, “Tua is in great shape. And he's in a great mental state. He's got a command of the offense. He's empowered by his head coach and his new contract. And he's more of an outspoken leader than ever.” Head coach Mike McDaniel sees the benefits of implementing Year Three of his system: “The more elite technique that we are able to put on tape, the faster the process goes for all new players. I think that is what you’re looking for. Year 3, you kind of expect that, but players have to earn that or work towards that and I think they really have leaned into it, found new ways to get better, while sharpening their axe for the stuff that they’re good at.”
The backup competition ended abruptly on Sunday when the team released veteran Mike White. Skylar Thompson secured the No. 2 job after dissecting the Buccaneers' defense, going 19-of-27 for 190 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
Despite six running backs on the roster, the Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson believes the team could be interested in signing a running back off the waiver wire. Raheem Mostert, De’Von Achane, Jeff Wilson Jr., and Jaylen Wright are all roster locks. In Friday's game, Wright played well in limited action, rushing seven times for 36 yards and catching four passes for 41 yards. Wilson had a disappointing outing, while Mostert and Achane did not play.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
On Tuesday, Tyreek Hill was spotted wearing a brace on his hand. By Wednesday, he was seen without the brace, and Coach McDaniel downplayed the injury, saying, “I’m really good at thumb war; he lost.” He also added, “Tyreek could practice today; however, there’s also times that because of the timing of where their bodies are at, it kind of puts them at risk to get further injury.” Jaylen Waddle returned on Wednesday, marking his first practice of the preseason. Malik Washington continues to show boom potential, as evidenced by Friday’s game, where he had just two touches on offense, but one was a 40-yard rush. He also returned kicks, including an impressive 45-yarder. Hill, Waddle, Braxton Berrios, and Odell Beckham Jr are considered roster locks. Erik Ezukanma and Washington are fighting for the final spots.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
Jonnu Smith stood out in Wednesday's joint practice against Tampa Bay, catching multiple touchdowns and seemingly securing the starting tight end spot. Smith has received great reviews this preseason, and Offensive Coordinator Frank Smith expressed his excitement: “Just seeing how he's fitting in, knowing what he's going to be able to bring, he's really excited for this season, and so are we." Coach Mike McDaniel also praised Smith, "It was cool to have him out there; I think he brings physicality and a guy that really enjoys having the football in his hands and can do some really cool stuff with that... I think he's a great addition to our team. I think there's a multitude of ways that you can use players, and he's no exception."
Preseason Updates: Defense
On Wednesday, rookie safety Patrick McMorris, who has been standing out in camp, was evaluated by a trainer for a lower-body injury. Rookie edge rusher Chop Robinson was dominant in joint practice versus the Buccaneers this week, going up against tackle Tristan Wirfs. Robinson told Sports Illustrated’s Alain Poupart that he earned Wirfs' respect, saying, “I mean, he just sees something great in me... That's what he said. And, of course, he's great. He just got paid a lot. So, I'm just excited to learn." Edge rusher Quinton Bell has also turned heads in camp with elevated opportunities. He told Sports Illustrated’s Scott Salomon, "I'm definitely getting a lot of great reviews, great reviews from my peers and people gaining respect and gaining that trust. I just feel like I've been flying around."
Preseason Updates: Returners
Braxton Berrios will be the team’s top returner this year; the only question is whether the Dolphins play some of their offensive stars on special teams, as head coach Mike McDaniel suggested they might–and if so, how often?
Updates from Week 3
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's Preseason Insights: What You Need To Know This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa emphasized the importance of chemistry with his receivers, telling reporters, “I've got to see how they run routes,” and “I've got to see how they are on their breaks.” Tagovailoa got his first preseason action of the year on Saturday against the Washington Commanders. He played just one drive but accounted for the team’s only touchdown. After the game, Tagovailoa said, “It feels good any time you start to get back into a routine and get back into the games. Jitters will always be there going into the first series and first plays. Other than that, we executed the way we wanted to and did what we wanted to do.” Skylar Thompson appears to be leading the positional battle for the team’s backup quarterback, taking over for Tagovailoa after his lone drive. Although he was the third quarterback used, Mike White made some highlight plays, including a 24-yard completion in the second half.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
According to The Palm Beach Post’s Joe Schad, “Jaylen Wright continues to demonstrate burst and explosiveness in practice.” During indoor sessions on Wednesday, there were “heavy doses of Jaylen Wright. It seems they want him to have a wide grasp of plays.” Tagovailoa also praised Wright, saying, “He’s acclimated pretty quick," and “I think once he feels comfortable and gets comfortable, then I think we’ll all start to see his personality flourish.” Wright was held out of Saturday’s game for precautionary reasons. The Miami Herald’s Omar Kelly and Kaushik Sampath speculate Wright’s absence probably has to do with a nagging injury he suffered during practice this week. The severity of the injury hasn’t been disclosed. Both Raheem Mostert and De’Von Achane played in this week’s game. Mostert carried the ball five times for seven yards, while Achane carried just twice but gained 10 yards.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
Neither Jaylen Waddle nor Odell Beckham Jr practiced this week. Beckham Jr. has yet to practice with the team, while this was Waddle’s second week without practice due to an undisclosed injury. Tyreek Hill joined this duo and didn’t participate in the team’s game on Saturday, although he has been practicing. Due to Beckham Jr.'s injury, the team’s No. 3 receiver has been River Cracraft, who went down in Saturday’s preseason game with an undisclosed injury after catching the team’s only touchdown. Rookie Malik Washington had both good and bad moments in Saturday’s game. He continues to look good on special teams but also dropped a catchable pass on offense. The team’s leading receivers in snap counts were Braylon Sanders and Erik Ezukanma.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
Jonnu Smith finished second on the team in receptions on Saturday with four catches for 23 yards. According to the Miami Herald’s C. Isaiah Smalls II, Smith spoke afterward about his outing, saying, “I’m just utilizing my skill set,” and “That’s one thing that I’ve kind of made my name on in this league: being versatile and being able to make plays from different spots of the field.” Coach Mike McDaniel was also impressed with the team’s newest weapon, telling reporters, “He’s a guy who really enjoys having the football in his hands and can do some really cool stuff with that.” McDaniel added that guys like Smith, who are “fast, aggressive playmakers,” put pressure on defenses that “will really just try to defend space.”
Preseason Updates: Defense
Star edge rusher Jaelan Phillips was activated off the PUP list this week. Joe Schad reported that during pass-rushing drills in 11-on-11, Phillips “looks really good.” Rookie edge rusher Chop Robinson made his presence felt in Saturday’s preseason game with a big tackle for loss in the first half, which drew praise from teammates and coaches. After the game, head coach Mike McDaniel told reporters, "His teammates and myself included have seen him do it all camp, so that was a good starting point. We look forward to seeing more of that." According to Tom D’Angelo, "Chop has been doing amazing," Phillips said. "He’s been doing all the right things, I thought he played really well out there. He’s flying around, playing instinctively, so it’s only a matter of time before he really gels in this defense and really gets used to being in this league.” Coach McDaniel was impressed with his team’s defensive performance and ensured reporters knew it. "What's standing out is the overall mentality of the defense," he said. "We play fast, physical, with elite technique.”
Preseason Updates: Offensive Lines
The Dolphins' line ranks 12th overall, mainly on the strength of their tackles. Left tackle Terron Armstead (5x Pro Bowl) enters the season at 33 years old but continues to operate at an extremely high level. After the team declined his fifth-year option, right tackle Austin Jackson had a breakthrough season last year, and the team rewarded him with a three-year contract extension. There are two troubling injuries to watch: left guard Isaiah Wynn's rehab from a quad is going poorly, and center Aaron Brewer (Tennessee) has a hand problem. Still, the team has experienced depth like Liam Eichenberg and Jack Driscoll (Philadelphia).
Updates from Week 2
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's Preseason Insights: What You Need To Know This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Tua Tagovailoa sat out the team’s preseason game on Friday. Per coach Mike McDaniel’s comments following Wednesday’s practice, the backup job is up for grabs. “So, I see that as ... it’s neck and neck, and far from me even thinking about who’s going to win that job, and I think that’s a compliment just because they’re both developing very well.” Neither Mike White nor Skylar Thompson did anything against the Falcons to pull ahead. The backups combined to go 12-of-33 for 121 yards. Thompson threw the lone touchdown pass to current running back Jeff Wilson Jr. After the game, McDaniel told reporters, "We still have a ton of work to do."
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
Beat writer Travis Wingfield explains that the rushing game benefits heavily from the success of the passing attack. He writes, “The passing game set up the rushing attack as Raheem Mostert and De'Von Achane exploited gaps for big gains.” And, “We've seen those two special backs turn plays like that into points.” Achane and Mostert did not play against the Falcons. Rookie Jaylen Wright had a volatile week. In practice, he lacked consistency, according to Joe Schad and Hal Habib of the Palm Beach Post. However, he shined in the game, rushing ten times for 55 yards and a walk-in touchdown. “I’m not somebody that’s going to bounce around in a hole,” said Wright. “When I go full speed, I get in the open field, it’s over with. I don’t feel like anybody’s catching me.” The team’s only other offensive touchdown was a receiving score by Wilson.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
Tyreek Hill remains positive about the team’s practice habits, noting, “The energy out at practice is great, man. You hear guys chirping back and forth – it’s fun. That’s what makes football fun when brothers are able to chirp in between the lines and then go into the locker room and have a genuine conversation like men.” Malik Washington stood out in this week’s practices and Saturday’s game, showcasing his ability to affect the game as a runner, receiver, and kickoff returner. After Wednesday’s practice, Coach McDaniel said of Washington, “He's operating as a vet would in terms of how he's studying, his ownership of the playbook, and how reliable he is with assignments for his teammates."
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
Jonnu Smith appears to be taking the lead for the starting role. According to Wingfield, Smith “made his impact felt Wednesday. Whether he was catching passes, leading a convoy off the edge, or running through tackles, Smith offers the Dolphins offense a unique element that wasn't available in 2023.” The team is utilizing Smith in a variety of ways. Linebacker Anthony Walker spoke about Smith’s uniqueness and usage. “I saw him get a jet sweep today,” Walker said. “I was like, ‘All right, we’re just installing stuff now.’” He continued, “He’s a very unique talent at that tight end position. Pretty much can run like a running back, catch like a receiver, and then get down and block like an O-lineman.” Neither Smith nor Durham Smythe played in this week’s preseason game. Jody Fortson had one catch for 12 yards in the preseason opener.
Preseason Updates: Defense
This week, the defense made headlines when a fight broke out during a joint practice with the Falcons. According to Sports Illustrated’s Daniel Flick, “When the scrap began, nearly all of Atlanta's offense and Miami's entire defense hurried into a circular mob at around the 30-yard line. The two sides were separated after roughly 20 to 30 seconds.” Cornerback Siran Neal made waves in the preseason game, heading to the locker room after an impressive performance that included a forced fumble and subsequent recovery. Patrick McMorris led the team in tackles against Atlanta.
Preseason Updates: Returners
Braxton Berrios, a veteran return specialist, is expected to field most kicks this year. However, head coach Mike McDaniel has mentioned that the new kickoff return rule might reduce injury risk, potentially opening the door for using starters like Tyreek Hill or Raheem Mostert on kickoff returns occasionally.
Updates from Week 1
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's What You Need To Know From Every Team This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Tua Tagovailoa signed a $212.4 million extension with $167 million guaranteed this past week, giving the Dolphins stability as they open camp. This contract reflects the team's belief in both the player and the scheme. When asked about the contract, head coach Mike McDaniel said he “expected it to get done” and that it was a “cool validation” for Tagovailoa. Tagovailoa has taken ownership of the team this offseason. After Friday’s practice, he said, "This isn't Mike's team. This is our team. At the end of the day, that's what it is. Our coaches, they're out there to give us the tools that we need to help us go out there and be successful.” The backup situation is still taking shape. Mike White primarily took the reps while Tagovailoa was negotiating, and Skylar Thompson will slot in as the third quarterback. However, his roster spot may be at risk if the team opts to carry only two quarterbacks into the season.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
Fourth-round draft pick Jaylen Wright made headlines this week after getting into a fight with teammate cornerback Kader Kahou, which led to a bench-clearing brawl. Despite the negative optics, the team responded positively to the incident. While not as attention-grabbing as the preseason scuffle, the team’s faith in Raheem Mostert as the lead back is a significant takeaway. According to ESPN’s Marcel Louis-Jacques, when asked about the backfield, Coach McDaniel said, “The whole group, pretty much led by Raheem, it is of quality and depth as good as I've been around -- and I've been around a lot of good groups.” While the roles of the second and third running backs remain unclear, McDaniel also spoke highly of De’Von Achane, stating, “More ways to be at the point of attack to play within this offense, that's what this offseason really provides for him. Seeing some strength gains, and you can tell by his body he's put some work into it.” Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa also expressed his confidence in Achane after Saturday’s practice, saying, “I love De'Von (Achane). Last year, he showed a lot of capabilities of what he can do for us offensively from the backfield, going out, running routes in the slot, all of that. That's sort of what the defense gave us, were those throws to him today. I trust him and asked him to make some plays for us today."
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
The duo of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle has now been joined by veteran Odell Beckham Jr, who has already garnered respect from his teammates. Jaylen Waddle told CBS reporter Evan Washburn, “OBJ gonna definitely make defenses be aware of him when he's out there. Me, him, and Reek when we're out there together, that's the one that they gotta keep eyes on because if you don't, he gonna make you pay." While Beckham Jr. is listed as #3 on the depth chart, which may be unfamiliar territory, he has been vocal about understanding his role on the team. ESPN’s Marcel Louis-Jacques reports Beckham said, “I think we all just push each other. And for me, at this place in my life and my career, I haven't been the No. 1 in a minute. You could go look at targets, you could go look at anything, that's not really where I've been at. So just understanding your role and how can you be the very best at that role, maximize those opportunities.” While Beckham may not be the #1, Tyreek Hill remains optimistic about the team's direction. Reflecting on the earlier mentioned fight, Hill was quoted by the Miami Herald saying, “I think the fight we had today was amazing. We need that. Teams that I’ve been on that won, those teams fought.” The team shared Hill's optimism and signed him to a three-year, $90 million contract extension, with $65 million guaranteed.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
An under-the-radar signing for the Dolphins this offseason was veteran Jonnu Smith, who is currently competing with Durham Smythe for the starting role. According to Dolphins TE Coach Jon Embree, Smith and Smythe are on an every-other-day rotation in training camp. While this doesn't clearly indicate a leader in the battle, it does show that Smith's signing has prompted the coaching staff to reevaluate the position. According to Sports Illustrated, Durham Smythe spoke to reporters after OTAs in June, saying, "Your role changes every year, depends on the personnel at your position, what the offense is good at, you know, the personnel at other positions, even so your role changes every year ... if you can adapt in a way where you can be valuable to the team, you're always going to have a spot somewhere.” Head Coach Mike McDaniel has high expectations for the tight end group, stating, “You’re part of the blocking corps. You’re part of the receiving route tree. When I tell you offensively, the most challenging position each and every week to learn the plan of attack is in that F-position, which is both tight ends and fullbacks. And the versatility of that room, turn the page, there’s the versatility of your offense.”
Preseason Updates: Defense
The defense will have a new look this season with the hiring of Anthony Weaver as defensive coordinator. Weaver has indicated in team interviews that he will implement a Baltimore Ravens-style 3-4 defensive scheme. Edge rusher Emmanuel Ogbah has reportedly been disruptive in both pass and run situations, and the linebacking corps, led by David Long Jr. and Duke Riley, has consistently penetrated the backfield during practice. Star corner Jalen Ramsey has also been a standout in camp, excelling in both pass coverage and run support.
