The Miami Dolphins' recent game against the Washington team has sparked a range of discussions and questions among fans and analysts alike. The team's performance, particularly in the second and third-team offense, has left much to be desired, with many questioning the depth and quality of the roster. One of the key areas of focus is the quarterback position, with the team's backup options coming under scrutiny.
Personally, I think the Dolphins' decision to focus on evaluating young players and building a strong foundation for the future is a smart move. While the team may not have the depth at certain positions, such as safety and wide receiver, they are taking a long-term view. The notion of adding a high-round draft pick or a veteran like Stefon Diggs or Keenan Allen to the wide receiver position, for instance, doesn't make much sense in the grand scheme of things. These players may not be the game-changers the team needs to make the playoffs.
One thing that immediately stands out is the need for a more stable backup quarterback situation. The team's current options, including Miller and Ewers, have not instilled confidence in the fans. While Ewers may have the physical gifts, he is struggling with precision and decision-making, which are crucial for a quarterback's success. This raises a deeper question: How can the team improve the backup quarterback situation without sacrificing their long-term goals?
In my opinion, the Dolphins should focus on developing their young players, particularly at the quarterback position. Malik Willis, for instance, has the potential to be a great or elite quarterback, with a higher ceiling than Tua due to his superior athleticism and arm strength. The team should give him the time and resources to develop, rather than rushing to add a retread like Jimmy G, which could hurt their draft position.
The team's depth at the running back position is also a concern. While Gordon and Wright may get similar numbers of carries, Wright has a slight edge in terms of confidence from the coaching staff. The ceiling for Achane, the starting running back, is estimated at around 25 touches per game, which is a realistic expectation given his performance in 2025. The team should focus on building a strong running back room to support the offense.
In terms of the defense, the team's safety group is a concern. The position includes a second-year player who was a part-time starter as a rookie, a career special teams guy, and a rookie fifth-round pick. The team should consider upgrading this position to ensure a more stable and reliable defense.
Overall, the Dolphins' season is about testing what they have in Willis and developing other young pieces. While the team may not have the depth at certain positions, they should focus on building a strong foundation for the future. The backup quarterback situation, running back room, and safety group are areas that require attention, but the team should remain patient and trust in their young players' potential.
