Miami’s Bye-Week Depth-Chart Reset

The Miami Dolphins’ bye arrives at a point when the depth chart is changing through performance as much as injury. Several rookies have moved from developmental roles into the center of Miami’s plan, while health questions could alter both lines and the secondary before the Oct. 25 game at New York.

Quarterback: Malik Willis remains the starter, with Kyle McCord behind him and Brady Cook on the practice squad. Willis’ rushing value is unquestioned, but the bye-week priority is reducing the late decisions that produced three turnovers against Cincinnati.

Running back: Ollie Gordon II is the clear lead back with De’Von Achane on injured reserve. Jaylen Wright and Kaytron Allen are the primary depth options. Gordon’s consecutive productive starts have made the position one of Miami’s few stable groups.

Receiver and tight end: Malik Washington leads the rotation, with Chris Bell, Jalen Tolbert, Kevin Coleman Jr. and waiver claim Jared Wayne competing for work. Caleb Douglas’ ankle injury bears watching. Coleman’s first NFL touchdown should earn him more opportunities. Greg Dulcich tops the tight ends while Justin Joly works back from a concussion.

Offensive line: Patrick Paul, Kadyn Proctor, Aaron Brewer and Austin Jackson hold four starting jobs. Right guard depends on Jonah Savaiinaea’s ankle. Jarrett Kingston played well in relief against Cincinnati and is the likely replacement if needed.

Defensive front: Zach Sieler, Jordan Phillips and Kenneth Grant lead the interior rotation. Chop Robinson and Josh Uche top the edge group, but Miami needs more than its current four sacks. Robert Beal Jr.’s hamstring and the possible return of reserve-list players could reshape the rotation.

Linebacker: Jordyn Brooks, rookie Jacob Rodriguez and Willie Gay Jr. remain the primary trio. Rodriguez leads the team in tackles and has played his way into an every-down role.

Secondary: Jason Marshall Jr., JuJu Brents and Chris Johnson are the projected top corners, with Dante Trader Jr. and Zayne Anderson at safety. Brents’ stinger, Michael Taaffe’s chest injury, Reese Taylor’s quadriceps and the potential returns of Storm Duck and Darrell Baker Jr. create the most uncertainty.

The major bye-week changes are already visible: Gordon is the offensive centerpiece, Rodriguez is an every-down defender and Coleman is pushing for more receiving work. The remaining adjustments depend on health, especially at right guard and cornerback.