The Miami Dolphins are entering the final stretch of the preseason, and the pressure is on. With the deadline for reducing the roster to 53 players looming, every snap, every practice, and every decision carries immense weight. As they prepare for their preseason finale against the Jacksonville Jaguars, several position battles are intensifying. These competitions will not only determine who makes the team but also who will play significant roles when the regular season kicks off against the Indianapolis Colts on September 7.
While some positions, like quarterback with Tua Tagovailoa and Zach Wilson, seem settled, others are fiercely contested. The coaching staff, led by Mike McDaniel, faces tough choices across various positions, including wide receiver, tight end, offensive line, and multiple spots on the defensive side of ball. Each battle presents unique challenges and considerations, and the outcomes will significantly impact the team’s depth and overall competitiveness.
This article breaks down the key position battles to watch as the Dolphins finalize their roster. We’ll examine the contenders, analyze their strengths and weaknesses, and assess the potential impact of each decision on the team’s prospects for the upcoming season.
Wide Receivers Behind the Top Three
The wide receiver position is a hotbed of competition beyond the established top three: Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, and Malik Washington. Nick Westbrook-Ikhine is likely to make the roster due to his free-agent signing and guaranteed money. However, the battle for the final roster spots and snaps is fierce.
Dee Eskridge has impressed in training camp, showcasing similar skills to the top receivers. Meanwhile, Tahj Washington and Erik Ezukanma are vying for a potential sixth receiver spot. Washington has been consistent, while Ezukanma offers size and special teams experience. The Dolphins must weigh the value of Eskridge’s upside against the size and special teams contributions of the others.
Consider these factors when evaluating the WR group:
- Performance in training camp: Who has consistently made plays and demonstrated reliability?
- Special teams contributions: Which receivers can contribute beyond the passing game?
- Fit within the offensive scheme: Does the receiver’s skillset complement the existing talent and strategy?
Backup Tight End
The tight end position presents another intriguing battle. Julian Hill and Darren Waller are expected to share starting duties based on the situation. However, the Dolphins must decide whether to keep one or two tight ends behind them.
Pharaoh Brown offers value as a blocking specialist, while Tanner Conner excels as a receiving threat. Waller’s injury history adds another layer to the decision. The Dolphins may prioritize Conner’s receiving skills to protect themselves against potential injuries to Waller.
Key questions surrounding the TE group include:
- Blocking ability: How well can the tight end contribute to the running game and pass protection?
- Receiving skills: Can the tight end stretch the field and make contested catches?
- Injury history: Does the player have a track record of staying healthy?
Backup Offensive Line
The Dolphins’ top six offensive linemen seem set, pending Austin Jackson’s return from injury. Patrick Paul, Jonah Savaiinaea, Aaron Brewer, James Daniels, and Larry Borom are expected to fill the other spots. However, injuries to Liam Eichenberg and Andrew Meyer have created uncertainty in the backup roles.
Daniel Brunskill and Kion Smith are the frontrunners to secure roster spots as backup interior linemen. The Dolphins will likely keep a large number of offensive linemen on the practice squad to provide depth. The ability to play multiple positions and provide reliable protection will be critical factors in determining who makes the final roster.
Here’s what to look for in the OL battle:
- Versatility: Can the lineman play multiple positions on the offensive line?
- Run blocking: How effective is the lineman at creating running lanes?
- Pass protection: Can the lineman consistently protect the quarterback from pressure?
The Final Spot on the D-Line
The Dolphins have invested heavily in their defensive line, drafting Kenneth Grant, Jordan Phillips, and Zeek Biggers. All three have shown promise during training camp. However, Matt Dickerson and Matthew Butler have also impressed, making the final roster decision difficult.
Grant and Phillips are likely locks due to their draft status. Biggers may also have an edge as a seventh-round pick. However, the Dolphins must decide whether to keep seven defensive linemen or risk losing valuable talent on waivers. The ability to disrupt the run and generate pressure on the quarterback will be key factors in determining who makes the team.
Consider the impact of these stats:
- Sack percentage: How often does the lineman generate sacks?
- Run stop percentage: How often does the lineman stop the run at or behind the line of scrimmage?
- Pressure rate: How often does the lineman pressure the quarterback?
The Final Edge Defenders
The Dolphins boast a talented group of young edge defenders, including Grayson Murphy and Derrick McLendon. The addition of Matthew Judon has further increased the depth at this position. However, the Dolphins must make tough decisions to trim the roster.
Jaelan Phillips, Bradley Chubb, Chop Robinson, and likely Judon are expected to make the team. This leaves one spot available for Murphy, McLendon, Cameron Goode, and Quinton Bell. Goode’s special teams prowess and Bell’s versatility could be deciding factors.
What it takes to be an impact edge rusher:
- Pass-rushing moves: Does the player have a variety of moves to beat offensive tackles?
- Run defense: How well does the player set the edge and contain the run?
- Special teams contributions: Can the player contribute on special teams units?
The Cornerback Question
The cornerback position is filled with uncertainty beyond Storm Duck. The Dolphins must decide how many cornerbacks to keep and who will start opposite Duck. Jack Jones Jr. may have an edge due to injuries to Kendall Sheffield and Ethan Bonner.
Cam Smith’s status is also in question, as he returns from injury. Jason Marshall Jr. appears to have secured the slot position, but Mike Hilton’s usage suggests he may not make the roster. The ability to cover receivers in man and zone coverage, as well as contribute on special teams, will be crucial in determining who makes the final roster.
Cornerbacks are evaluated by:
- Coverage skills: How well does the cornerback cover receivers in man and zone coverage?
- Tackling ability: Can the cornerback make tackles in the open field?
- Special teams contributions: Can the cornerback contribute on special teams units?
The Status at Safety
The safety position is somewhat clearer, with Minkah Fitzpatrick and Ifeatu Melifonwu expected to start. Ashtyn Davis’s role is uncertain as he returns from injury. The Dolphins must decide on the final roster spot, with Dante Trader Jr., Patrick McMorris, and Jordan Colbert competing for the position.
Fitzpatrick, Melifonwu, and Elijah Campbell are likely locks. The final spot will likely come down to special teams contributions and potential upside. The ability to cover tight ends and running backs, as well as provide run support, will be key factors in determining who makes the team.
Safety factors to consider:
- Coverage skills: How well does the safety cover tight ends and running backs?
- Run support: Can the safety effectively support the run defense?
- Special teams contributions: Can the safety contribute on special teams units?
Conclusion
As the Miami Dolphins head into their preseason finale, the coaching staff faces critical decisions in finalizing the 53-man roster. Position battles across the team, from wide receiver and tight end to the offensive and defensive lines, will shape the team’s depth and competitiveness for the upcoming season. While some positions appear settled, others remain fiercely contested, with players vying for roster spots and crucial roles.
The decisions made in the coming days will have a lasting impact on the Dolphins’ season. Each player’s performance, versatility, and special teams contributions will be carefully evaluated as the coaching staff seeks to assemble the most talented and cohesive roster possible. The battles for the final spots are not just about individual players; they are about creating a team that can compete at the highest level and achieve its ultimate goal of winning a championship.
Ultimately, the Miami Dolphins’ success in the 2025 season will depend not only on the star players but also on the depth and quality of the entire roster. The decisions made during this final phase of the preseason will set the stage for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. As the Dolphins prepare to face the Indianapolis Colts in the season opener, the focus remains on building a team that is ready to compete and achieve its goals.
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