Training camp is where the Dolphins’ depth chart starts to get real, and this year there are a few names worth watching closely.
Miami is trying to build a team-first mentality, develop young players, and figure out the path to a common goal. That makes camp more interesting than usual, especially with a 53-man roster that figures to be tough to project. Most spots should stay steady, but a handful of jobs could be up for grabs once the veterans join the first-year players a week after the rookies report and the full competition ramps up from the work that started during OTAs.
One of the clearest battles sits at linebacker, where Tyrel Dodson could be pressed by younger options. Dodson has put together quietly solid seasons for the Dolphins, but Jordyn Brooks has drawn more attention.
The two have worked well together, yet Jacob Rodriguez and Kyle Louis could make a run at Dodson’s role. Miami wants its young players on the field, and that push is about more than just the future.
Dodson will need to separate himself in camp, or the job could go to someone with more upside.
The guard spot also looks unsettled, and Jonah Savaiinaea is in a spot where a strong camp matters a lot. The second-year pro needs a better season, and that begins with showing more in camp.
He’ll enter 2026 without Chris Grier controlling his status, while the Dolphins have also drafted Kadyn Proctor, who will start at left guard. That still leaves no guarantee that Savaiinaea gets handed the right guard job.
Miami also brought in Jamaree Salyer, a physical guard who could turn this into one of the best competitions of camp if he stays healthy.
At right tackle, Austin Jackson’s immediate job is not the concern so much as his ability to stay available. His roster spot becomes more of a 2027 question, but he still can’t afford to miss time in camp.
Charlie Heck is not on Jackson’s level, but he is a capable starter, and the Dolphins want continuity up front. If Jackson can’t stay on the field, Heck could start picking up more reps and eventually take over.
Malik Washington is another player who looks safe at first glance but isn’t completely out of the woods. He should have his job locked in, yet that may not be the reality.
Washington did not stand out on the boundary last season, and he’ll have to hold off newcomers Jalen Tolbert and TuTu Atwell. Theo Wease is the name coming from behind, though.
He flashed late last season, made a strong impression in OTAs and mini-camps, and if he earns first-team reps, he could put real pressure on Washington.
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