The Miami Dolphins have made their way to Ashburn, Virginia, for a joint practice with the Washington Commanders at the BigBear.ai Performance Center. This practice, scheduled for Wednesday, serves as a crucial preparation ahead of Miami's first preseason game under new head coach Jeff Hafley, set for Friday.
As the Dolphins gear up for this competitive session, several players have emerged as key figures to watch. Here’s a closer look at five Dolphins who could make a significant impact during the practice.
First up is quarterback Malik Willis. Acquired by Miami in the offseason with a three-year contract worth $67.5 million, Willis is expected to be the cornerstone of the team's offense. His performance in training camp has been solid, but the real test will come against a different defensive unit. Observing how he handles the Commanders' defense will be pivotal for his development and the team's future plans.
Next, right guard Jonah Savaiinaea is looking to rebound after a challenging 2025 season, where he received the lowest grade for a guard in two decades according to Pro Football Focus. Now back on the right side, Savaiinaea has reportedly shown improvement in training camp. This joint practice will serve as an important benchmark for his progress and comfort level in the position.
Wide receiver Caleb Douglas, one of three receivers drafted by Miami in 2026, has been making waves during training camp. Despite some issues with drops, his ability to create separation against defenders has been impressive. The upcoming practice against Washington will provide a valuable opportunity for Douglas to showcase his skills against a different secondary.
Linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, a second-round pick from April's draft, has been generating buzz as a potential starter. His inclusion on Miami's initial depth chart as a fringe starter indicates the coaching staff's confidence in his abilities. A strong showing in this joint practice and the subsequent preseason game could solidify his place on the roster, potentially challenging Tyrel Dodson for a starting role by the season opener.
Lastly, cornerback Chris Johnson, the Dolphins' first-round selection, is another player to monitor closely. While Miami's secondary has not been particularly formidable, Johnson has displayed flashes of brilliance in training camp, albeit with some rookie mistakes. Observing his performance and positioning during the practice will be critical in assessing his readiness for the upcoming season.
As the Dolphins and Commanders prepare to face off, these five players will be under the spotlight. Their performances in this joint practice could set the tone for their respective roles in the upcoming preseason game and beyond.
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