Miami's right side is in flux as Austin Jackson lands on IR and James Daniels joins him, forcing a reshaped O-line for at least four games. Borom steps in at right tackle with Kion Smith sliding to right guard; Strange, Brunskill or Lamm may inherit later opportunities. Waller remains in the lineup with a two-TE look, and Wilson Jr. plus Patterson get practice-squad elevations to stay ready. Cornell Armstrong moves up to fifth cornerback as Bonner sits, while Wright is doubtful and Waller stays active.

Depth and tempo become the x-factors: the Dolphins will lean on internal depth, situational protection schemes, and occasional run-game adjustments against a brutal early schedule (Patriots, Bills, Jets, Panthers). The earliest Jackson or Daniels could return is Week 6 vs Chargers, giving Miami a light at the end of the tunnel as Eichenberg works off PUP. Fantasy angles hinge on who seizes the opportunistic reps along the line and how the TE and RB options are deployed in the shift.

Miami starts 2025 with big playmaking but health risk. Tyreek Hill drives the offense and is motivated by a contract deadline rather than captain status, while rookie Jason Marshall Jr. tests the nickel role to boost the secondary. Off the field, OLBs coach Ryan Crow is arrested and placed on leave, adding depth questions to the defense as Mike McDaniel preaches a hotter mindset. Week 1 against the Colts looms as a real test for pace, health, and leadership across the squad.

Fantasy angles center on Hill as the top target with high ceiling even in a shaken depth chart. Marshall Jr. at nickel could unlock more aggressive cover schemes if he shines, while Crow's absence may shift LB rotations. The Dolphins enter a season where captains were named and the offense still looks to outpace injuries, with Week 1 shaping early expectations for both offense pace and defensive resistance against Indianapolis.

Miami’s rookie-heavy plan is real: as many as four newcomers could start Week 1 and seven may contribute on opening day. Ollie Gordon II flashed in the final preseason, taking advantage of injuries to De’Von Achane and Jaylen Wright and piling up 126 yards on 26 attempts while also delivering solid pass protection against blitzes. Kenneth Grant, Jonah Savaiinaea, and Jason Marshall Jr. are being asked to contribute early, with Quinn Ewers pushing for more opportunities behind Tua Tagovailoa. It’s Dolphins 101 all August: stack good days, develop the young core, and hope the class delivers.

The 2025 NFL Draft brought forth a group of rookie defensive backs with potential for impactful roles despite being selected in the later rounds. Notably, Billy Bowman Jr. from the Atlanta Falcons, a versatile safety/player, fell to the fourth round due to size concerns but possesses the ability to play multiple positions effectively. Similarly, Quincy Riley of the New Orleans Saints, with considerable college experience, has a chance to shine but must compete against established players. Miami's Jason Marshall Jr. could capitalize on possible trades affecting the team's secondary, while Dante Trader Jr. stands out as a promising safety with a tough playing style. Each of these players offers unique attributes that could help them secure a spot on their respective teams.