The Miami Dolphins concluded their 2024 training camp with a joint practice session with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, marking four weeks since their inaugural summer practice. Notably, off the field, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and wide receiver Tyreek Hill secured new contracts ensuring their stay for at least another three years.
Training camp’s typical conditions included Miami’s notorious heat and humidity, the usual minor injuries, and Standout performers varied across the roster.
Here are the notable highs and lows from this year’s training camp at the Baptist Health Training Complex:
Highs:
- Impressive Rookie Class: The rookie draft picks demonstrated their potential despite practice limitations. Although wide receiver Tahj Washington was placed on injured reserve, the remaining members, including Chop Robinson, Patrick Paul, Jaylen Wright, Mohamed Kamara, Malik Washington, and Patrick McMorris, all showed promise at various moments.
- No Severe Injuries Among Key Players: Although four players are on season-ending injured reserve, none were projected major contributors for 2024, which marks an improvement over last year’s significant injuries.
- Emergence of Underdogs: Some lesser-known players like edge defender Quinton Bell and cornerback Storm Duck made significant impacts, with Duck standing out beyond just his distinctive name.
- Jaelan Phillips’ Promising Recovery: Edge rusher Jaelan Phillips has made a notable return to practice, coming off the PUP list and showing signs of a strong comeback from his Achilles injury in 2023.
Lows:
- Star Players Sidelined: Injuries sidelined key players like Terron Armstead and Jaylen Waddle, affecting practice participation and preparation for the season.
- Backup Quarterbacks Underwhelm: Mike White and Skylar Thompson did not inspire much confidence in their performances, despite the need for reliable backups.
- Offensive Line Challenges: The offensive line struggled with consistency due to injury setbacks, affecting overall team synergy and performance.
Best Training Camp Performers by Position:
- QB: Tua Tagovailoa consistently performed well, unlike his backups.
- CB: Jalen Ramsey, despite missing some actions, had moments of significant impact.
- DT: Zach Sieler was consistently noticeable.
- LB: Curtis Bolton, a recent free agent addition, was notably active.
- EDGE: Quinton Bell started strong, though his performance dipped later.
- OL: Jack Driscoll, new from the Philadelphia Eagles, may earn a starting position.
- RB: De’Von Achane remained swift and effective in receiving drills.
- S: Rookie free agent Mark Perry from TCU showed promising late-camp improvement.
- TE: Julian Hill is poised for an expanded role in 2024.
- WR: Tyreek Hill consistently impressed when he was on the field, overshadowing other receivers like River Cracraft.