The Dolphins are about to find out what Kadyn Proctor looks like when the real thing starts.
On Sunday in Las Vegas against the Raiders, Miami will open the regular season with its rookie left guard making his NFL debut. No preseason feel-out, no exhibition reps - just the first snap of actual football with Proctor in the middle of it.
That decision came with plenty of noise when Miami used its first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft on the Alabama lineman. The Dolphins passed on safety Caleb Downs and also bypassed EDGE Rueben Bain Jr., and the reaction online was immediate.
But new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan clearly had a different vision for the offense. He wanted more toughness.
More force at the point of attack. And, just as importantly, better protection for quarterback Malik Willis, who represents a major investment for the organization.
While plenty of fans spent the summer questioning the pick, the people inside the building have been far more optimistic about what Proctor can bring.
Veteran center Aaron Brewer was asked about the rookie after Monday’s practice and pointed straight to the traits that stand out. “ His size.
His speed. That’s an athletic big dude,” said Brewer.
Patrick Paul, entering his third season at left tackle, echoed that confidence when talking about Proctor’s readiness. “ He’s been ready.
He’s ready. He’s a different kind of rookie, ” spoke Paul of Proctor.
Now the praise gets tested in live action. Proctor will have his first chance to answer the criticism on Sunday, when Miami faces Las Vegas in the late afternoon window on the opening NFL Sunday of the 2026 season.
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Among the newcomers are edge defender Herring, quarterback McCord and tight end Joly, along with several others who were added to help wherever the need pops up. Their roles will likely depend on injuries, matchup demands and how Miami wants to piece together certain spots as the year unfolds. The broader picture is clear enough even if the final answer is not: the Dolphins quietly stocked the back end of the roster with players who may not be household names yet, but could end up being part of the conversation sooner than expected. [Read more 🡒]