Will Dolphins’ Malik Willis, De’Von Achane play vs. Falcons?

Malik Willis and De’Von Achane will not play in the Miami Dolphins’ preseason finale against the Atlanta Falcons on Friday night. Many other starters will sit as well.

Their absences will leave Miami focused primarily on evaluating the players competing for spots on its initial 53-man roster. According to NFL Network’s Cameron Wolfe, Cam Miller will start at quarterback, while Quinn Ewers will sit out because of an injury. Wolfe added that Miami is managing several injuries and depth concerns, making the team’s remaining roster battles the priority Friday.

The most fascinating storyline, however, will be on Atlanta’s sideline.

Former Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa will start against his old team while attempting to secure the Falcons’ QB1 job. Michael Penix Jr. will not play, giving Tagovailoa the entire spotlight in what could become his final audition before Atlanta selects its Week 1 starter.

Tagovailoa has struggled to separate himself since joining the Falcons. A strong performance against Miami would provide a fitting way for him to strengthen his case, even if the Dolphins are resting several important players.

Willis’ absence means there will not be a direct comparison between two potential starters. Achane sitting also removes one of Miami’s most explosive offensive players from the matchup. That may take some star power away from the Dolphins, but it only increases the attention surrounding Tagovailoa.

The preseason finale may primarily be about roster evaluation for Miami. For its former quarterback, it could determine whether he opens the regular season atop Atlanta’s depth chart.