In a move to infuse young talent into their lineup, the Miami Dolphins selected seven promising rookies during the 2024 NFL Draft. However, this influx of new talents means the team will have to make some hard decisions to adhere to the 53-player roster limit by the end of training camp. Veterans could find themselves at risk of being released as the rookies look to secure their spots, reshaping the Dolphins’ roster dynamics.
Among the seven newcomers, Chop Robinson, Patrick Paul, Jaylen Wright, Mohamed Kamara, Malik Washington, Patrick McMorris, and Tahj Washington are poised to challenge for positions, potentially displacing established players. Here’s a look at six Dolphins who face an uphill battle to keep their spots within the team:
**WR Braxton Berrios**
Despite re-signing with the Dolphins in March on a one-year, $2.15 million contract, Braxton Berrios’ position is anything but secure. The drafting of receivers Malik Washington and Tahj Washington, both of whom share similar physical attributes to Berrios, puts him in a precarious situation. Additionally, new rules enhancing the value of kick returners – a role Berrios is familiar with – might not be enough to save his spot, given the rookies’ potential to contribute in return duties as well.
**EDGE Cameron Goode**
Cameron Goode, who joined the Dolphins as a seventh-round pick in 2022 and debuted last season, now faces stiff competition in a crowded pass-rushing department. Despite showing promise, Goode’s chances are dimmed by the team’s established veterans and the selection of Chop Robinson in the first round. His battle to secure a roster spot appears daunting, especially when going head-to-head with fellow 2024 draft pick Mohamed Kamara.
**WR Erik Ezukanma**
Erik Ezukanma, another Dolphins’ draft pick from 2022, has struggled to make a significant impact and now finds his position further jeopardized by the addition of the new receivers. While his unique stature as a 6’2″ receiver might initially save him, the possibility of the team signing a veteran wideout could spell trouble.
**RBs Jeff Wilson Jr. & Salvon Ahmed**
Both running backs face a precarious future with the Dolphins following the breakout of De’Von Achane and the drafting of Jaylen Wright. Despite being acquired to bolster the team’s running game, Wilson and Ahmed now find themselves in a crowded backfield with little room for error. With the team likely to prioritize youth and performance, this duo’s tenure with the Dolphins could be nearing its end.
**WR River Cracraft**
River Cracraft, despite his experience, hasn’t made a substantial mark with the Dolphins over two seasons, making his spot vulnerable following the draft. With the team possibly looking to reinforce its receiving corps further through free agency, Cracraft’s days in Miami could be numbered.
As the Dolphins gear up for the 2024 season, these veterans must prove their worth to avoid being sidelined by the team’s latest generation of talent, showcasing the ever-evolving nature of the NFL roster landscape.