Good Sunday Dolphin fans! Practice has just ended let’s get a recap of everything that went down.
Before practice began, Coach McDaniel spoke to the media on player injuries and a new acquisition. On Cam Smith, “he is day to day, we are waiting on his ability on the field, but he needs to stay on the field”. Dee Eskridge who was carted off the field Saturday had cramps, he returned to practice today. Tackle Austin Jackson got stepped on, “the timetable does not seem to be into the regular season and Jaelen Phillips missed today’s practice but will be back soon after a leg bruise. Toward the end of the presser, the team announced the signing of former first round pick Germain Ifedi and waived quarterback Brett Gabbert. Ifedi has played 117 games and 90 starts, used to play for the Seahawks, Bears, and Atlanta. Safety Ifeatu Melifonwu returned to the field today as this was his first training camp practice with the team. Let’s dive into practice!
Corner Storm Duck wore the orange practice jersey today. Duck has been very impressive the last couple of practices. Tyreek Hill has given some praise to the undrafted free agent from a year ago. The way Duck has been playing, he could earn a spot as a starter for the veteran led defensive unit.
Team drills began when Jordyn Brooks got a stop at the line of scrimmage on Achane, next play he would have gotten a sack on Tua. Brooks has been a man on fire during camp, which the team needs. Kenneth Grant and Jordan Phillips made plays disrupting the offense early on in practice. One thing to say about this defense every day has been setting the tone. Being physical is an area the Dolphins are trying to improve on going into the season and this defense this year will be flying to the ball causing wrecking to opposing offenses.
The defense came up with multiple interceptions, one by safety Jordan Colbert and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick interception Tua. This was Tua’s first interception he threw during camp. Cam Goode got in on the action causing mayhem during Quinn Ewers time on the field. In total, the defense has been the most consistent group, constantly flying to the ball and getting in the backfield by force. With the first preseason game coming in a week, fans will be seeing this elite defense work in unison.
Tua was dealing as usual to Tyreek and Waddle. During the red zone period, Zach Wilson was in the zone throwing a touchdown to Tahj Washington. Tahj has had an underrated camp as he is fighting for a spot on the roster in a competitive receiver room. Jaylen Waddle has been playing like a number one receiver all camp. Having season low stats last season, Waddle has something to prove this year.
A player who has not gotten a lot of praise is placekicker Jason Sanders. Sanders has been money all training camp throughout team drills. The former all-pro has high expectations for the upcoming season. Along with Tanner Connor who has been a reliable player for this offense as well.
During practice fullback Alec Ingold went down which later stated that he is in concussion protocol. With the first preseason game in a week, Ingold will most likely not play. An update on Darren Waller “who is still in his rehab coming out of retirement, has been in good shape and taking things slow”, Omar Kelly stated.
After practice, center Aaron Brewer spoke on how Jonah Savaiinaea has been carrying himself as a veteran and not a rookie. Storm Duck stated how his vision for the field has improved and his growth in learning the game. Duck also stated that practicing with Hill and Waddle “he is challenging them while they challenge me. At the end of the day, it’s about getting better”. Willie Gay Jr on how he is best used in game, “just let me run and hit”.
That is it for practice today! In a week the Dolphins will take on the Chicago Bears in Chicago at 1 p.m. Later this week the team will travel for joint practices as well. Have a great Sunday fins nation!
Photo Credits: NFL, Miami Dolphins, FinsXtra
