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Now that rookies have reported to camp, it’s a good opportunity to revisit the projected 53-man roster for the Miami Dolphins. Back in May, at the start of organized team activities (OTAs), Dolphins Wire published a projected roster. In the months since, there have been some significant changes.
The Dolphins sent a pair of big-name veterans, cornerback Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith, to the Pittsburgh Steelers. In return, the team welcomed back safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. Not long after, Miami acquired tight end Darren Waller from the New York Giants, ending his brief retirement.
With the rookies already in the facility and veterans set to join in a week, let’s see what changed on the roster projection:
Tua Tagovailoa, Zach Wilson
Seventh-round selection Quinn Ewers from the 2025 NFL draft is likelier to begin the season on Miami’s practice squad once the 53-man roster is finalized following training camp. The backup quarterback role behind starter Tua Tagovailoa appears to be Zach Wilson’s to lose.
Unless Ewers significantly outperforms Wilson during the summer practices in South Florida, the Dolphins may opt to carry just two quarterbacks on the active roster, provided they can successfully retain Ewers on the practice squad through roster cutdowns.
De’Von Achane, Jaylen Wright, Ollie Gordon II, Alec Ingold (FB)
While the Dolphins added veteran running back Alexander Mattison in free agency, the backfield is anchored by a trio of young, dynamic players. With fullback Alec Ingold complementing the group, Miami has the personnel to deploy a versatile, three-man rotation capable of creating matchup challenges for opposing defenses.
De’Von Achane has established himself as the league’s most prolific pass-catching back, leading all NFL running backs in receptions and receiving yards last season. Entering 2025, Miami may want to further expand his role as a hybrid weapon. Achane logged approximately 10 percent of his snaps on the boundary last year, and a rise in wide alignments could force defenses to account for him as both a runner and receiver, unlocking additional schematic flexibility.
This potential shift could directly benefit second-year back Jaylen Wright, who may assume a larger share of traditional rushing attempts, particularly on inside runs. Meanwhile, rookie Ollie Gordon offers a skill set that could translate to specialized usage in short-yardage and goal-line situations, where his size and power make him an ideal candidate for these key roles, including pass protection.
Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Malik Washington, Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, Andrew Armstrong
Spots one through four are nearly locked in, led by the duo of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. Both are aiming for rebound seasons after disappointing production in 2024. The room also features another pair of potential key targets. Malik Washington saw an increased workload over the final quarter of the season and could become a key contributor, particularly in the slot and on third downs.
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine makes his Dolphins debut after five seasons with the Tennessee Titans. While not built the same as ex-Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith, Westbrook-Ikhine could take over much of Smith’s red zone role. Fourteen of his 19 career touchdowns came inside the opponents’ 20-yard line, with 11 of those scored from 10 yards out or closer.
The fifth spot may come down to a battle among four undrafted rookies, with Andrew Armstrong’s 6’4 frame giving him a slight edge heading into camp.
Darren Waller, Pharaoh Brown, Julian Hill, Hayden Rucci
With Smith’s departure, Darren Waller rules the roost in the Miami tight end room and reunites with offensive coordinator Frank Smith. Waller experienced the most productive stretch of his career in 2019 and 2020 under Smith’s guidance during their tenure with the Raiders. Now returning from a one-year sabbatical, Waller, who turns 33 in September, could be positioned for a late-career resurgence in a system familiar with maximizing his skill set.
Julian Hill currently projects as the primary blocking tight end, though his tendency for penalties remains a concern. The offseason addition of Pharoah Brown provides further depth and competition in that role. Additionally, 2024 undrafted signee Hayden Rucci could emerge as a potential contributor, so long as he can hold off undrafted rookie Jalin Conyers, who may be a better fit on the practice squad.
Patrick Paul, Jonah Savaiinaea, Aaron Brewer, James Daniels, Austin Jackson, Liam Eichenberg, Andrew Meyer, Larry Borom, Josh Priebe
The only modification from the initial May outlook involves undrafted free agent guard Josh Priebe of Michigan, who merits attention for two primary reasons. First, offseason veteran signee James Daniels is currently recovering from an Achilles injury. Second, rookie second-round pick Jonah Savaiinaea has yet to sign his rookie contract
Kion Smith, entering his third NFL season, is no lock to make the team should Priebe demonstrate significant progress or if Miami opts to acquire additional interior depth via free agency. Currently, Liam Eichenberg is designated as the primary backup on the interior, which could present a depth concern if Daniels and/or Savaiinaea are unavailable for Week 1.
Additionally, the Dolphins must identify a viable swing tackle following the departure of Kendall Lamm to the Philadelphia Eagles. Larry Borom is a likely candidate for this role; however, attention should be given to undrafted free agent Tedi Kushi, a 6’7 prospect from Western Michigan, who is also competing for a roster position. Second-year center Andrew Meyer appears secure in his role as the backup to Aaron Brewer.
Zach Sieler, Kenneth Grant, Benito Jones, Jordan Phillips, Zeek Biggers
Nine defensive tackles will enter training camp, but the first five should be fairly easy to project. Zach Sieler remains the cornerstone of the group and a leader of the defensive unit, while nose tackle Benito Jones is the only other returning player with consistent snaps in the rotation.
Veterans Ben Stille and Matt Dickerson could compete for roster spots; however, Miami invested heavily in the position during the 2025 NFL draft, selecting three prospects, headlined by first-round pick Kenneth Grant. Jordan Phillips, who turns 21 this season, has already demonstrated professionalism and a work ethic beyond his years.
Seventh-round pick Zeek Biggers may also factor into the equation. At 6’6, his size and athleticism give him potential as both a rotational 3-technique lineman and a special-teams contributor.
Jaelan Phillips, Bradley Chubb, Chop Robinson, Quinton Bell, Mohamed Kamara, Jordyn Brooks, Tyrel Dodson, K.J. Britt, Willie Gay Jr., Grayson Murphy
The Dolphins’ linebacker corps includes several returning players who have yet to establish consistent roles or demonstrate sustained promise, placing veterans such as Channing Tindall and Cameron Goode at risk of being released. The organization bolstered the group by signing veterans K.J. Britt and Willie Gay Jr., while 2024 undrafted signee Grayson Murphy showed potential last offseason before suffering a season-ending injury in August.
Quinton Bell and Mohamed Kamara will need to prove their value to secure roster spots, though both possess the skill sets to provide depth. Additionally, undrafted rookie Eugene Asante could emerge as a contributor on special teams, offering another avenue to solidify his place on the roster or, at the very least, become a candidate for a practice squad role.
Cam Smith, Storm Duck, Kader Kohou, Jason Marshall Jr., B.J. Adams, Ethan Bonner
The Dolphins have yet to replace Jalen Ramsey with a veteran in the cornerback room. Miami may instead opt for an open competition among several young and unproven players.
Cam Smith enters a true make-or-break season, while second-year Storm Duck could look to capitalize on the opportunity. Slot specialist Kader Kohou is expected to remain in that role but could also be called upon to man the boundary in a pinch. Meanwhile, 2025 fifth-round pick Jason Marshall Jr. from Florida has an excellent opportunity to impress as a rookie and could challenge both Smith and Duck for snaps on the outside.
Ethan Bonner, entering his third NFL season, will look to build on solid showings in previous summers and remains one of the fastest players on the team. A final spot could be a battle of undrafted rookies, which includes B.J. Adams.
Minkah Fitzpatrick, Elijah Campbell, Ashtyn Davis, Ifeatu Melifonwu, Patrick McMorris, Dante Trader, Jr.
Miami welcomes back Fitzpatrick, who will serve as the leader and is the only safety who is a lock to start or log significant snaps. A pair of free agent newcomers, Ashtyn Davis and Ifeatu Melifonwu, have flashed potential in the past and will compete for the second and third spots on the depth chart.
The X-factor could be rookie Dante Trader Jr., a fifth-round rookie who is a cerebral and versatile player capable of handling any role at safety while contributing across multiple special teams jobs.
Jason Sanders, Ryan Stonehouse
Long snapper Joe Cardona enters his 11th season, but the Dolphins may once again employ some roster gymnastics on their initial 53 to make room for a player at another position they cannot afford to simply cut.
Jason Sanders heads into 2025 riding the NFL’s longest active made field goal streak at 27, continuing to showcase his clutch ability. Meanwhile, the Dolphins will hold a punter competition between returning veteran Jake Bailey and 2025 free agent Ryan Stonehouse, a former Titan who is now reunited with his former Tennessee coordinator, Craig Aukerman.
This article originally appeared on Dolphins Wire: Updated Dolphins 53-man roster projection heading into training camp
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The Dolphins sent a pair of big-name veterans, cornerback Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith, to the Pittsburgh Steelers. In return, the team welcomed back safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. Not long after, Miami acquired tight end Darren Waller from the New York Giants, ending his brief retirement.
With the rookies already in the facility and veterans set to join in a week, let’s see what changed on the roster projection:
Quarterbacks (2)
Tua Tagovailoa, Zach Wilson
Seventh-round selection Quinn Ewers from the 2025 NFL draft is likelier to begin the season on Miami’s practice squad once the 53-man roster is finalized following training camp. The backup quarterback role behind starter Tua Tagovailoa appears to be Zach Wilson’s to lose.
Unless Ewers significantly outperforms Wilson during the summer practices in South Florida, the Dolphins may opt to carry just two quarterbacks on the active roster, provided they can successfully retain Ewers on the practice squad through roster cutdowns.
Running backs (4)
De’Von Achane, Jaylen Wright, Ollie Gordon II, Alec Ingold (FB)
While the Dolphins added veteran running back Alexander Mattison in free agency, the backfield is anchored by a trio of young, dynamic players. With fullback Alec Ingold complementing the group, Miami has the personnel to deploy a versatile, three-man rotation capable of creating matchup challenges for opposing defenses.
De’Von Achane has established himself as the league’s most prolific pass-catching back, leading all NFL running backs in receptions and receiving yards last season. Entering 2025, Miami may want to further expand his role as a hybrid weapon. Achane logged approximately 10 percent of his snaps on the boundary last year, and a rise in wide alignments could force defenses to account for him as both a runner and receiver, unlocking additional schematic flexibility.
This potential shift could directly benefit second-year back Jaylen Wright, who may assume a larger share of traditional rushing attempts, particularly on inside runs. Meanwhile, rookie Ollie Gordon offers a skill set that could translate to specialized usage in short-yardage and goal-line situations, where his size and power make him an ideal candidate for these key roles, including pass protection.
Wide receivers (5)
Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Malik Washington, Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, Andrew Armstrong
Spots one through four are nearly locked in, led by the duo of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. Both are aiming for rebound seasons after disappointing production in 2024. The room also features another pair of potential key targets. Malik Washington saw an increased workload over the final quarter of the season and could become a key contributor, particularly in the slot and on third downs.
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine makes his Dolphins debut after five seasons with the Tennessee Titans. While not built the same as ex-Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith, Westbrook-Ikhine could take over much of Smith’s red zone role. Fourteen of his 19 career touchdowns came inside the opponents’ 20-yard line, with 11 of those scored from 10 yards out or closer.
The fifth spot may come down to a battle among four undrafted rookies, with Andrew Armstrong’s 6’4 frame giving him a slight edge heading into camp.
Tight ends (4)
Darren Waller, Pharaoh Brown, Julian Hill, Hayden Rucci
With Smith’s departure, Darren Waller rules the roost in the Miami tight end room and reunites with offensive coordinator Frank Smith. Waller experienced the most productive stretch of his career in 2019 and 2020 under Smith’s guidance during their tenure with the Raiders. Now returning from a one-year sabbatical, Waller, who turns 33 in September, could be positioned for a late-career resurgence in a system familiar with maximizing his skill set.
Julian Hill currently projects as the primary blocking tight end, though his tendency for penalties remains a concern. The offseason addition of Pharoah Brown provides further depth and competition in that role. Additionally, 2024 undrafted signee Hayden Rucci could emerge as a potential contributor, so long as he can hold off undrafted rookie Jalin Conyers, who may be a better fit on the practice squad.
Offensive line (9)
Patrick Paul, Jonah Savaiinaea, Aaron Brewer, James Daniels, Austin Jackson, Liam Eichenberg, Andrew Meyer, Larry Borom, Josh Priebe
The only modification from the initial May outlook involves undrafted free agent guard Josh Priebe of Michigan, who merits attention for two primary reasons. First, offseason veteran signee James Daniels is currently recovering from an Achilles injury. Second, rookie second-round pick Jonah Savaiinaea has yet to sign his rookie contract
Kion Smith, entering his third NFL season, is no lock to make the team should Priebe demonstrate significant progress or if Miami opts to acquire additional interior depth via free agency. Currently, Liam Eichenberg is designated as the primary backup on the interior, which could present a depth concern if Daniels and/or Savaiinaea are unavailable for Week 1.
Additionally, the Dolphins must identify a viable swing tackle following the departure of Kendall Lamm to the Philadelphia Eagles. Larry Borom is a likely candidate for this role; however, attention should be given to undrafted free agent Tedi Kushi, a 6’7 prospect from Western Michigan, who is also competing for a roster position. Second-year center Andrew Meyer appears secure in his role as the backup to Aaron Brewer.
Defensive line (5)
Zach Sieler, Kenneth Grant, Benito Jones, Jordan Phillips, Zeek Biggers
Nine defensive tackles will enter training camp, but the first five should be fairly easy to project. Zach Sieler remains the cornerstone of the group and a leader of the defensive unit, while nose tackle Benito Jones is the only other returning player with consistent snaps in the rotation.
Veterans Ben Stille and Matt Dickerson could compete for roster spots; however, Miami invested heavily in the position during the 2025 NFL draft, selecting three prospects, headlined by first-round pick Kenneth Grant. Jordan Phillips, who turns 21 this season, has already demonstrated professionalism and a work ethic beyond his years.
Seventh-round pick Zeek Biggers may also factor into the equation. At 6’6, his size and athleticism give him potential as both a rotational 3-technique lineman and a special-teams contributor.
Linebackers (10)
Jaelan Phillips, Bradley Chubb, Chop Robinson, Quinton Bell, Mohamed Kamara, Jordyn Brooks, Tyrel Dodson, K.J. Britt, Willie Gay Jr., Grayson Murphy
The Dolphins’ linebacker corps includes several returning players who have yet to establish consistent roles or demonstrate sustained promise, placing veterans such as Channing Tindall and Cameron Goode at risk of being released. The organization bolstered the group by signing veterans K.J. Britt and Willie Gay Jr., while 2024 undrafted signee Grayson Murphy showed potential last offseason before suffering a season-ending injury in August.
Quinton Bell and Mohamed Kamara will need to prove their value to secure roster spots, though both possess the skill sets to provide depth. Additionally, undrafted rookie Eugene Asante could emerge as a contributor on special teams, offering another avenue to solidify his place on the roster or, at the very least, become a candidate for a practice squad role.
Cornerbacks (6)
Cam Smith, Storm Duck, Kader Kohou, Jason Marshall Jr., B.J. Adams, Ethan Bonner
The Dolphins have yet to replace Jalen Ramsey with a veteran in the cornerback room. Miami may instead opt for an open competition among several young and unproven players.
Cam Smith enters a true make-or-break season, while second-year Storm Duck could look to capitalize on the opportunity. Slot specialist Kader Kohou is expected to remain in that role but could also be called upon to man the boundary in a pinch. Meanwhile, 2025 fifth-round pick Jason Marshall Jr. from Florida has an excellent opportunity to impress as a rookie and could challenge both Smith and Duck for snaps on the outside.
Ethan Bonner, entering his third NFL season, will look to build on solid showings in previous summers and remains one of the fastest players on the team. A final spot could be a battle of undrafted rookies, which includes B.J. Adams.
Safety (6)
Minkah Fitzpatrick, Elijah Campbell, Ashtyn Davis, Ifeatu Melifonwu, Patrick McMorris, Dante Trader, Jr.
Miami welcomes back Fitzpatrick, who will serve as the leader and is the only safety who is a lock to start or log significant snaps. A pair of free agent newcomers, Ashtyn Davis and Ifeatu Melifonwu, have flashed potential in the past and will compete for the second and third spots on the depth chart.
The X-factor could be rookie Dante Trader Jr., a fifth-round rookie who is a cerebral and versatile player capable of handling any role at safety while contributing across multiple special teams jobs.
Specialists (2)
Jason Sanders, Ryan Stonehouse
Long snapper Joe Cardona enters his 11th season, but the Dolphins may once again employ some roster gymnastics on their initial 53 to make room for a player at another position they cannot afford to simply cut.
Jason Sanders heads into 2025 riding the NFL’s longest active made field goal streak at 27, continuing to showcase his clutch ability. Meanwhile, the Dolphins will hold a punter competition between returning veteran Jake Bailey and 2025 free agent Ryan Stonehouse, a former Titan who is now reunited with his former Tennessee coordinator, Craig Aukerman.
This article originally appeared on Dolphins Wire: Updated Dolphins 53-man roster projection heading into training camp
Continue reading...
