What We Learned From the Miami Dolphins’ Preseason

What We Learned From the Miami Dolphins’ Preseason

The preseason is finally over, and while the Miami Dolphins’ 0–3 record doesn’t mean much when it comes to the standings, the three games have given us plenty to think about heading into the regular season. 

There have been some encouraging moments, but there have also been plenty of reasons for concern. More than anything, these preseason games have shown us a Dolphins team that is still trying to figure out exactly what it can be. The biggest question will be how consistently Miami can move the football. 

There have been stretches where the offense has looked capable of putting together drives, but there have also been long stretches where the Dolphins struggled to generate much of anything. That inconsistency can’t simply be dismissed, because these are preseason games. The personnel and game plans will change once the regular season begins, but the Dolphins still need to find a way to create an offense that can put points on the board. 

Malik Willis showed flashes of what he is capable of during his one drive as the quarterback. Despite his limited playing time, he performed well, though questions remain about his ability to lead the offense in the regular season.  Miami also just traded for Kyle McCord, who is slotted to be the backup quarterback for this season.

While Willis is expected to be the starting quarterback, he will need playmakers around him to elevate the Dolphins’ offense into a unit opponents must actively game plan against. De’Von Achane figures to be one of the most important players on the entire roster. His ability to make plays in space gives Miami a weapon that can change the game at any moment. If the Dolphins can establish the run and make defenses respect it, it should make things considerably easier for the quarterback. 

The offensive line will be just as important. A quarterback needs time to throw, and the running game also needs the line so that they can perform as well. The Dolphins don’t need the offensive line to be perfect, but they need it to be dependable. If Miami can protect the quarterback and consistently run the football, the offense has a chance to become much more effective as the season progresses. 

One of the things that stands out about this team is that plenty of young players are being given opportunities to establish themselves. The preseason isn’t simply about finding out who can make the roster. It’s about discovering which players can eventually become important pieces of the team. Every young player who shows he can contribute gives the Dolphins another building block. 

The defense may be the area where Miami has the best chance to keep itself in football games. There have been some encouraging flashes, particularly from the younger players competing for larger roles. 

The Dolphins have young talent that could develop into something special. They have an opportunity to establish a tougher identity and build the foundation as the season progresses.