The Miami Dolphins’ preseason took a sudden, unwelcome turn this week as the team was hit with a double injury blow that could have major implications heading into the 2025 season.
On Tuesday, head coach Mike McDaniel confirmed that starting running back [Name] suffered a season-ending injury during team drills. The setback, described as a serious lower-body injury, will require surgery and months of rehab, officially ruling him out for the entire campaign.
“It’s gutting,” McDaniel said. “He’s been such a huge part of what we do, both as a playmaker and as a leader. We’ll rally as a team, but there’s no replacing him.”The loss is particularly painful for Miami’s offensive identity. The RB was coming off a career year, posting over 1,200 rushing yards and double-digit touchdowns in 2024. His combination of speed and vision made him a perfect fit for the Dolphins’ explosive, motion-heavy attack. The team will now look to its depth chart — including [Backup RB Name] and rookie [Rookie Name] — to carry the load.Adding to the team’s concerns, rising edge rusher [Name] exited Wednesday’s practice after an awkward collision during pass-rush drills. Early reports indicate it’s not as severe as the running back’s injury, but initial evaluations suggest a potential multi-week absence. The second-year defender had been one of the standouts of training camp, drawing praise for his improved technique and relentless energy.
For a Dolphins squad with playoff aspirations in a loaded AFC, the timing couldn’t be worse. The loss of their RB1 significantly alters their offensive balance, while any time missed by a key young pass rusher could weaken a defense that already faces tough divisional matchups against the Bills and Jets.Still, McDaniel remained optimistic. “This is the NFL — you adapt or you get left behind,” he said.
“We believe in the guys in this locker room.” Fans will get their first look at Miami’s new backfield rotation when the Dolphins open their preseason slate next week.