The Miami Dolphins are gearing up for their upcoming preseason game against the Washington Commanders on Saturday night, a crucial time for finalizing their 53-man roster for the new season. Some roster decisions have been influenced by injuries, such as offensive lineman Kion Smith’s placement on injured reserve due to a torn ACL incurred in the preseason’s first game. Clearly, injuries are shaping the team’s lineup decisions.
Certain position battles are more straightforward, while others, like those for running back and wide receiver, involve tougher choices. Miami Dolphins SI Publisher Alain Poupart offers his latest roster predictions for the 2024 season:
Quarterbacks
- On the roster: Tua Tagovailoa, Mike White
- Not included: Skylar Thompson
- Rationale: Mike White remains the top choice for the backup quarterback position, despite Skylar Thompson’s strong performance in the preseason opener and general ambiguity in their training camp performances.
Running Backs
- On the roster: Raheem Mostert, Jeff Wilson Jr., Devon Achane, Jaylen Wright, fullback Alec Ingold
- Not included: Salvon Ahmed, Chris Brooks
- Rationale: Jeff Wilson Jr. might be traded for a draft pick as he has shown impressive form, although recently sidelined by a minor injury.
Wide Receivers
- On the roster: Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Braxton Berrios, Odell Beckham Jr., River Cracraft, Malik Washington
- Not included: Je’Quan Burton, Anthony Schwartz, and others
- Rationale: The main uncertainty revolves around whether Odell Beckham Jr. will start the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, potentially missing the first four games.
Tight Ends
- On the roster: Durham Smythe, Julian Hill, Jonnu Smith, Tanner Conner
- Not included: Hayden Rucci, Jody Fortson
- Rationale: Tanner Conner’s recent injury could pave the way for others, but he’s still likely to make the team.
Offensive Linemen
- On the roster includes Terron Armstead, Austin Jackson, and others
- Changes: Lester Cotton makes the roster due to Kion Smith’s injury.
- Rationale: The group might see changes if Isaiah Wynn, currently expected on PUP, recovers in time.
Edge Players
- On the roster: Jaelan Phillips, Emmanuel Ogbah, among others
- Not included: Cameron Goode and Bradley Chubb (both on PUP)
- Rationale: Injuries have clarified some decisions, and adjustments will be required when injured players return.
Defensive Tackles
- On the roster includes Zach Sieler, Benito Jones
- Not included: Isaiah Mack, and others
- Rationale: Brandon Pili earns a spot, bringing more of a nose tackle presence, showing the fluctuating dynamics in team selections.
Inside Linebackers
- On the roster: Jordyn Brooks, David Long Jr., among others
- Changes include Channing Tindall making the roster, replacing Anthony Walker Jr.
- Rationale: Walker’s ongoing absence due to injury has shifted the lineup.
Defensive Backs
- On the roster: Jalen Ramsey, Kader Kohou, among others
- Not included: Nik Needham, and others
- Rationale: Despite strong performances from rookies and Needham’s versatility, the team faces tough decisions due to limited spots.
Special Teams
- On the roster: K Jason Sanders, P Jake Bailey, LS Blake Ferguson
- Rationale: No changes anticipated, keeping the special teams setup straightforward.
This roster projection indicates the Dolphins’ strategy and considerations, including health and performance, shaping their team for the NFL season.