The Miami Dolphins are stepping into a new era with a fresh general manager and a first-time head coach steering the ship. After a couple of challenging seasons, 2023 almost became a standout year for Dolphins fans. But the dream was cut short, leaving a sense of what might have been.
Jaylen Waddle and Terron Armstead, key players from that 2023 squad, understand the fans' lingering thoughts about that season's abrupt end. Waddle, in a candid moment, turned the tables on Armstead, asking, “Had that 2023 team stayed healthy, what do you think was our upside?” Armstead, no stranger to Super Bowl-caliber teams, didn't hesitate: “That Miami Dolphins 2023 team was a Super Bowl team.”
Armstead, reflecting on his experience, noted the unique potential of the 2023 Dolphins. They were the top seed, boasting 13 wins and poised for success. Yet, it all unraveled, primarily due to a roster plagued by injuries.
The Dolphins faced a brutal stretch as they tried to fend off the surging Bills. Key defensive players like Andrew Van Ginkel, Jerome Baker, Bradley Chubb, and Jaelan Phillips were sidelined. The team had to scramble, bringing in street free agents to fill crucial roles just before Week 17 and the Wild Card round.
On offense, the challenges were equally daunting. Starting center Connor Williams and Jaylen Waddle were lost to injuries late in the season, with Waddle missing critical games due to an ankle injury. Xavien Howard was also out during the crucial final stretch.
Reflecting on what was McDaniel’s best season, the Dolphins had the confidence, momentum, and system in place. But the tide turned after a tough loss to the Titans in Week 14, leading to four losses in their final six games.
Injuries weren't the only hurdle. They exposed weaknesses in McDaniel’s offense and revealed vulnerabilities in Tua Tagovailoa's game. The following year, salary cap issues came to the fore, highlighting some questionable contract decisions by the previous GM.
The 2023 Dolphins were built for success, and as Waddle pointed out, the talent was undeniable. The roster was stacked with standout players:
Miami Dolphins 2023 Offense:
- Quarterback: Tua Tagovailoa, delivering his best season yet
- Running Back: Raheem Mostert, who had a record-breaking year
- Wide Receivers: Jaylen Waddle, Tyreek Hill
- Offensive Line: Terron Armstead, Connor Williams, Robert Hunt
- Tight End: Durham Smythe
Despite some gaps at tight end and on the line, the offense was a powerhouse of speed and skill.
Miami Dolphins 2023 Defense:
- Defensive Line: Christian Wilkins, Zach Sieler, Raekwon Davis
- EDGE: Jaelan Phillips
- Outside Linebackers: Bradley Chubb, Andrew Van Ginkel
- Inside Linebackers: Jerome Baker, David Long
- Cornerbacks: Jalen Ramsey, Xavien Howard, Kader Kohou
- Safeties: Jevon Holland, DeShon Elliott
Waddle and Armstead are spot on. Dolphins fans will forever ponder what could have been.
The talent was there, but injuries and contract woes ultimately derailed their ambitions. It’s a chapter that offers valuable lessons for Jon-Eric Sullivan as he takes the helm.