Here are six notes regarding the Dolphins on a Monday:
▪ The Dolphins announced eight roster changes on Monday afternoon, the most significant being the release of veteran running back Salvon Ahmed.
Additionally, offensive lineman Sean Harlow and receiver Willie Snead IV have been placed on the reserve/injured list, ruling them out for the entire season. The team also waived linebacker Ezekiel Vandenburgh due to an injury designation.
In their effort to bolster their lineup for Friday’s preseason finale against Tampa Bay, the Dolphins signed four players: running backs Zander Horvath and Anthony McFarland Jr., receiver Jadon Janke, and linebacker Dequan Jackson. These players may face tougher odds for making the final roster.
With Ahmed’s departure, Miami is in need of running backs, as Chris Brooks is currently in concussion protocol, and Jeff Wilson Jr. has missed the last ten days due to a nose injury.
During his four seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers from 2020 to 2023, McFarland had 42 carries totaling 146 yards (averaging 3.5 yards per carry) over 17 games. Standing 5-8 and weighing 193 pounds, he was selected in the fourth round by Pittsburgh out of Maryland in 2020.
Horvath, who measures 6-3 and weighs 230 pounds, played in 15 games and started two for the Chargers in 2022. He carried the ball four times for 8 yards and caught five passes for another 8 yards, scoring two touchdowns. The Chargers drafted him in the seventh round in 2022. He spent the offseason and part of training camp in 2024 with the Saints.
Receiver Janke, standing at 6-3 and weighing 210 pounds, signed with Houston as an undrafted free agent in May but was released recently. He recorded 170 receptions for 2,786 yards and three touchdowns during his four-year career at South Dakota State.
Undrafted in 2023, Jackson was on the Jaguars’ practice squad last season before being released earlier this summer. The linebacker, measuring 6-1 and weighing 255 pounds, amassed 307 tackles and 27 tackles for loss during his five years at Colorado State.
Ahmed had a four-year tenure with the Dolphins, playing in 38 games and starting four of them. He suffered a season-ending foot injury last November and was unable to participate in most practices over the last three weeks due to a foot issue. He did not take part in either of the preseason games.
Throughout his Dolphins career, Ahmed recorded 163 carries for 593 yards and five touchdowns. He also had 40 receptions for 274 yards (averaging 6.9 yards per catch) and scored one touchdown.
Harlow, versatile as both a guard and center, showcased his potential during practices over the last two weeks but was injured in Saturday’s preseason game against Washington. Snead’s injury timeline remains unclear, yet he was seen struggling with drops in practice after joining the Dolphins earlier in August.
Vandenburgh joined Miami as an undrafted rookie but missed the previous season due to a knee injury. He showed promise at the beginning of training camp but suffered an injury during Saturday’s second preseason game.
▪ Defensive lineman Calais Campbell, at 37, is in excellent shape. However, now that he is playing in the South Florida heat instead of the dome in Atlanta last season, how many snaps is optimal for someone in such a demanding position?
“I think 35 to 40 plays a game is the sweet spot,” Campbell shared on Monday. “That’s where I feel I can still contribute effectively… .In key moments, I want to be on the field to help secure a victory.”
Last season with the Falcons, Campbell started all 17 games and averaged 42 defensive snaps per game. If he maintains an average of 38 snaps per game in 2024, it would result in approximately 646 snaps for the entire season.
Campbell’s 712 defensive snaps ranked 27th among interior defenders and 42nd among edge players last season. He also participated in 140 special teams snaps.
“Usually, I have to push for extra reps,” Campbell noted, explaining that his coaches often express the importance of keeping him “fresh in the fourth quarter and ideally reaching the playoffs.”
As Campbell mentioned, “Trust me, I understand my body. I’ll inform you if anything feels off.”
Christian Wilkins, whom Campbell is effectively replacing, played 894 snaps, averaging 52.5 per game for the Dolphins last season before signing with Las Vegas in March.
Campbell is anticipated to take on an inside role, primarily facing off against guards.
“In this defensive scheme, I expect to align over guards for most of the game,” Campbell explained. “There will be instances where I line up against the tackle.”
▪ Tight end Durham Smythe takes pride in being one of the longest-tenured Dolphins players alongside Jason Sanders, as they both enter their seventh season with the franchise.
What is the secret to maintaining a long career if you’re not recognized as a Pro Bowler?
<p“Consistency every day comes to mind,” Smythe stated. “Not letting emotions sway your performance too much allows teammates to trust what they can expect from you daily.
“Adapting is also crucial. Each year brings a new team. I’ve had various roles these past seven years. Embracing whatever role you’re assigned and aiming to excel in it can increase your chances of sticking around.”
▪ According to Pro Football Focus, the five highest-graded Dolphins on offense against Washington, along with their respective snap counts, were: receiver River Cracraft (11 snaps before an injury), quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (11), running back De’Von Achane (13), tackle Kendall Lamm (11), and tight end Jonnu Smith (13).
On defense, PFF identified the top five Dolphins performers against Washington as cornerback Storm Duck (38 snaps), linebacker David Anenih (28), safety Jordan Colbert (23), cornerback Siran Neal (18), and cornerback Jason Maitre (48).
▪ According to PFF’s passing metrics, Washington quarterbacks went 0 for 4 when targeting Duck, completed 6 of 6 passes against Maitre (for only 22 yards), and were 4 for 6 against the now-injured Cam Smith (for 35 yards). They were 5 for 5 against Kader Kohou (for 37 yards), and both Kendall Fuller and Nik Needham went 1 for 1 for 7 yards.
▪ Mo Kamara, Channing Tindall, and Curtis Bolton received the highest run defense grades from PFF on Saturday, while Chop Robinson, Jonathan Harris, and Jordyn Brooks were at the bottom. Additionally, left tackle Patrick Paul and center Andrew Meyer were responsible for allowing Washington’s only two sacks.
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Dolphins Roster Updates: Key Moves and Player Insights Ahead of Preseason Finale
Overview of the Dolphins’ Roster Changes
The Miami Dolphins have been busy making strategic roster adjustments as they prepare for their preseason finale. These key moves not only impact their immediate performance but also set the tone for the regular season. Here’s an in-depth look at the recent roster updates and what they mean for the team’s prospects.
Key Roster Moves
As the Dolphins approach their preseason finale, several notable roster changes have taken place. These moves include trades, free agency signings, and player cuts. Here’s a breakdown of the most significant updates:
- Quarterback Acquisition: The Dolphins signed veteran quarterback Mike White to provide depth and competition in the QB room.
- Trade for Linebacker: The team traded for Devin Bush, a dynamic linebacker, to strengthen their defensive unit.
- Release of Veteran Players: In a surprising move, the Dolphins released Albert Wilson, signaling a shift in their receiving corps.
Player Insights
Rookie Watch: Key Draft Picks
The Miami Dolphins made some impactful selections in the 2023 draft. Here are the rookies to keep an eye on:
- Tyreek Hill: Added explosiveness to the offense, expected to be a primary target.
- Javon Holland: The safety has been impressive in training camp and is likely to secure a starting role.
- Channing Tindall: A linebacker who is making waves and could greatly contribute to the defense.
Injury Updates
Injuries can dramatically affect a team’s strategy. Here are the latest injury updates impacting the Dolphins roster:
- Jaylen Waddle: The star receiver is recovering from a minor ankle injury but is expected to be ready for the regular season.
- Xavien Howard: The cornerback has been nursing a hamstring issue but has participated in limited drills.
Impact of Roster Changes on Team Dynamics
The changes to the Dolphins roster provide a glimpse into the team’s evolving strategy. Here’s how these adjustments shape the team’s dynamics:
| Player | Position | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Mike White | Quarterback | Brings experience and depth behind Tua Tagovailoa. |
| Devin Bush | Linebacker | Enhances the defensive capability and can cover the passing game. |
| Albert Wilson | Wide Receiver | His release opens opportunities for younger receivers. |
Benefits of Recent Roster Moves
The strategic roster changes have several benefits for the Miami Dolphins:
- Increased Competition: Adding experienced players like Mike White creates healthy competition, pushing the starters to elevate their game.
- Improved Defense: With Bush’s arrival, the Dolphins’ defense is expected to become more formidable, particularly against the pass.
- Younger Talent Development: Releasing veterans opens up roster spots for younger, promising players, which can lead to long-term success.
Practical Tips for Fans
As the Dolphins prepare for their preseason finale, here are some tips for fans to stay engaged and informed:
- Follow Social Media: Stay updated by following the Dolphins’ official social media channels for real-time news and player insights.
- Watch Preseason Games: Tune in to preseason games to see how new acquisitions and rookies perform under pressure.
- Engage with Forums: Join online forums and discussions to connect with other fans and share insights on player performances and roster moves.
Case Study: Successful Roster Adjustments in NFL History
Examining successful roster adjustments in NFL history can provide valuable lessons. One notable case is the 2019 San Francisco 49ers, who made several key moves leading to a Super Bowl appearance. Their strategy included:
- Acquiring a game-changing wide receiver.
- Strengthening the offensive line.
- Investing in top-tier defensive talent.
The Dolphins’ current strategy reflects the understanding that successful teams frequently reassess and adjust their rosters to enhance performance.
First-Hand Experiences from Dolphins Fans
Fans have expressed mixed feelings about the recent roster changes. Here are some insights:
- Positive Feedback: Many fans are excited about the addition of Mike White, believing his experience will benefit Tua Tagovailoa.
- Concerns: Some fans were disappointed with the release of Albert Wilson, citing his potential as a valuable asset.
the Dolphins’ roster updates signify a commitment to improvement and adaptability, crucial for success in the competitive NFL landscape.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect in the Finale
As the Dolphins gear up for their preseason finale, fans can expect to see a mix of familiar faces and new players in action. The coaching staff will be closely evaluating how the roster changes impact gameplay and strategy. Key areas to watch include:
- The performance of newcomers like Mike White and Devin Bush.
- How the offensive line holds up against defensive pressure.
- The development of young receivers stepping into larger roles.
With the preseason finale fast approaching, the Miami Dolphins are primed to make a statement, showcasing their revamped roster and setting the stage for the upcoming regular season.
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