The Miami Dolphins have until September 5, 2025, at 4 p.m. Eastern Time to finalize their roster, trimming their preseason squad from 90 players to the mandated 53-man limit. As the deadline approaches, the coaching staff faces challenging decisions regarding player cuts and final placements that will shape the team for the upcoming season.
Throughout the preseason, the Dolphins exhibited a mix of performances. They ended the preseason with a 14-6 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, following a 24-24 tie with the Chicago Bears and a 24-17 win against the Detroit Lions. While key starters participated in the first and final games, the majority of playing time was allocated to depth players, highlighting the competition for roster spots.
Projected 53-Man Roster Overview
As the Dolphins prepare for the upcoming season, our final projection of the initial 53-man roster reflects current player performances and team needs. The roster remains fluid, subject to changes due to waiver claims, injuries, and potential trades or free-agent acquisitions.
Offense (23 players) includes:
– **Quarterbacks (3):** Tua Tagovailoa, Zach Wilson, Quinn Ewers. No changes have been made, although Wilson’s performance has raised concerns about his backup role.
– **Running backs (4):** De’Von Achane, Ollie Gordon II, Jaylen Wright, Alec Ingold (Fullback). Gordon appears set to be the second runner, pushing for carries alongside Achane. The team may consider placing Wright on injured reserve, depending on health assessments.
– **Wide receivers (5):** Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Malik Washington, Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, Dee Eskridge. Tahj Washington has been cut, leaving room for other positions.
– **Tight ends (3):** Darren Waller, Pharaoh Brown, Julian Hill. Tanner Conner has been excluded to create additional roster space.
– **Offensive linemen (8):** Patrick Paul, Jonah Savaiinaea, Aaron Brewer, James Daniels, Austin Jackson, Larry Borom, Kion Smith, Daniel Brunskill. Liam Eichenberg has moved to the reserve/physically unable to perform list, with the potential for activation later in the season.
Defensive and Special Teams Lineup
The defensive lineup comprises 27 players:
– **Defensive linemen (6):** Zach Sieler, Benito Jones, Kenneth Grant, Jordan Phillips, Matt Dickerson, Zeek Biggers. Biggers has earned his spot due to strong performances.
– **Linebackers (10):** Jaelan Phillips, Jordyn Brooks, Tyrel Dodson, Bradley Chubb, Chop Robinson, Willie Gay Jr., Matthew Judon, K.J. Britt, Quinton Bell, Cameron Goode. Goode’s presence is critical for special teams, while Grayson Murphy remains a practice squad consideration.
– **Cornerbacks (6):** Storm Duck, Kendall Sheffield, Jason Marshall, Mike Hilton, Jack Jones, Cornell Armstrong. Jason Marshall has moved ahead of Hilton, while Ethan Bonner is now on injured reserve.
– **Safeties (5):** Minkah Fitzpatrick, Ashtyn Davis, Elijah Campbell, Ifeatu Melifonwu, Dante Trader Jr. Davis’s recovery is promising, contributing to a strong safety unit.
The special teams section features 3 players:
– **Punter:** Jake Bailey
– **Kicker:** Jason Sanders
– **Long Snapper:** Joe Cardona
All positions remain unchanged, although Sanders’s injury is worth monitoring as the team prepares for the regular season.
The Dolphins’ roster will continue to evolve as they navigate the waiver wire and respond to injuries. This final assessment serves as a snapshot of where the team stands ahead of the season, showcasing the talent and depth the Dolphins aim to leverage in their pursuit of success.