As the Miami Dolphins conclude their 2025 preseason with a 14-6 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, the team’s immediate focus has sharply shifted to the health of its roster, with the regular season opener just two weeks away. While the Dolphins largely avoided new front-line injuries in their final exhibition game, several key players are navigating various setbacks, raising questions about their availability for Week 1 against the Indianapolis Colts.
Running Back Room in Flux
The most significant concern appears to be at running back, a position already beleaguered by injuries. Rookie Jaylen Wright sustained an injury during a joint practice against Jacksonville and is currently listed as “week-to-week.” Head coach Mike McDaniel noted that the team is “evaluating a couple of options procedurally,” which suggests his availability for the season opener is uncertain, and a stint on injured reserve is a possibility.
This comes after free-agent signing Alexander Mattison was ruled out for the entire 2025 season due to a neck injury requiring surgery after the preseason game against the Bears. Furthermore, starter De’Von Achane has been nursing a calf injury, though McDaniel indicated he has experienced “no setbacks” and looks forward to his return to practice soon. The mounting injuries have thrust rookie sixth-rounder Ollie Gordon II into a more prominent role, and he has reportedly impressed during the preseason. Mike Boone, a veteran running back, may also see an increased role if Wright and/or Achane miss time, given his experience and strong preseason performances.
Defensive Linebacker & Secondary Concerns
On the defensive side, linebacker Jordyn Brooks suffered a “minor” undisclosed injury during the joint practice with the Jaguars. While he was held out of the preseason finale, Coach McDaniel stated that Brooks would have played if it had been a regular-season contest, suggesting he should be ready for Week 1.
Rookie defensive tackle Kenneth Grant, a first-round pick, missed recent practices and the Jaguars game due to an undisclosed injury. However, his injury is not expected to be long-term, and he is projected to be available for the regular season opener.
The Dolphins’ cornerback room also faces uncertainty. Ethan Bonner, who sustained a hamstring injury in a preseason game against Detroit, is listed as “week-to-week.” His absence is particularly concerning given the team’s already precarious situation at cornerback following other injuries to players like Kader Kohou and Artie Burns. Kendall Sheffield, another cornerback, is dealing with a soft tissue injury and could miss up to a week, but is expected to return by the September 7 regular-season opener.
Special Teams Scrutiny
Kicker Jason Sanders experienced a pregame warm-up issue before the Jaguars game, leading punter Jake Bailey to handle the opening kickoff and even attempt a 51-yard field goal. While the Dolphins opted for two-point conversions after their touchdowns in the absence of Sanders, Coach McDaniel downplayed concerns, indicating Sanders was not “overly concerned for Week 1” and should be available for the regular season.
Tyreek Hill’s Anticipated Return and Other Offensive Notes
Star wide receiver Tyreek Hill did not participate in any preseason games or practice since August 7, dealing with an oblique injury. Despite his absence throughout the preseason, the prevailing sentiment within the organization is that Hill will be ready for the start of the regular season. His prolonged absence, however, has inadvertently allowed quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to build chemistry with other receivers on the roster, potentially addressing a previous flaw in the offense.
Offensive tackle Austin Jackson, who was also banged up during the preseason, is making steady progress with no setbacks and is expected back for the opener. Liam Eichenberg, who has been on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list all summer, is likely to start the season on Active/PUP, sidelining him for at least the first four games.
Roster Decisions Loom Large
With the cutdown to the 53-man roster imminent, the Dolphins’ coaching staff, led by Mike McDaniel, faces critical decisions regarding these injured players. The team’s ability to navigate these health challenges and solidify its depth will be crucial as they aim to improve upon their 8-9 record from the previous season and contend in a stacked AFC. The next two weeks will be vital for recovery and roster finalization, setting the tone for Miami’s 2025 campaign.
