The Miami Dolphins are set to conclude their preseason with a matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Friday evening. This game will likely serve as the final assessment period for determining who will make the cut for the team’s 53-man roster for the forthcoming season. Some roster decisions have already been influenced by injuries, such as offensive lineman Kion Smith being placed on injured reserve due to a torn ACL suffered in the preseason opener. Injuries could continue to impact final roster selections as the opening day approaches.
Certain roster positions are more clearly determined than others, with the running back and wide receiver positions facing some tough choices. Alain Poupart, the Publisher for Miami Dolphins On SI, has released his fourth projection for the 53-man roster for 2024, here are some highlights:
Quarterbacks (3 on the roster): Tua Tagovailoa, Mike White, and Skylar Thompson. Mike McDaniel, the head coach, has tested his quarterbacks in tough scenarios throughout the summer, which may explain some underwhelming performances. Despite this, the team seems to plan on keeping Thompson, even though a new rule allows for an emergency third quarterback on the practice squad.
Running Backs (5 on roster): The Dolphins are expected to trade Jeff Wilson Jr. for a draft pick while retaining Chris Brooks, who offers special teams utility and a unique physical presence.
Wide Receivers (6 on roster): With Odell Beckham Jr.’s position uncertain due to a potential start on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, the receivers’ roster spots have been competitive. Malik Washington and Erik Ezukanma have made the cut.
Tight Ends (3 on roster): The projection suggests the Dolphins will go with fewer tight ends if they maintain three quarterbacks. This involves strategic decisions about who may be eligible for the practice squad.
Offensive Linemen (9 on roster): This group remains unchanged from previous projections, with Isaiah Wynn possibly beginning on the PUP.
Edge Players and Defensive Tackles: Injuries and performance lead to projections with five edge players and five defensive tackles making the roster. This includes some tough choices influenced by the need for specific roles, like a pure nose tackle.
Inside Linebackers (4 on roster): Despite a strong camp, Curtis Bolton might not make the team, with the Dolphins potentially favoring younger prospects for contributions on defense and special teams.
Defensive Backs (10 on roster): The roster choices here are complicated by strong performances from rookie defensive backs. A recent injury to Cam Smith has added to the complexity, potentially shuffling the final spots.
Special Teams (3 on roster): Kicker Jason Sanders, Punter Jake Bailey, and Long Snapper Blake Ferguson are set without anticipated changes.
As the Dolphins head into their final preseason game, these projections highlight the depth and talent considerations the team is balancing as they prepare for the upcoming season.