Miami took a deliberate step in the 2025 preseason, letting Tua Tagovailoa start and rolling out most of the 1st‑team offense. The change from last year’s approach is meant to sharpen Week 1 readiness, not to chase a win in August. Tagovailoa’s opening drive progress and the emergence of Malik Washington and Tahj Washington against Chicago’s reserve defense suggest the Dolphins are prioritizing game‑like tempo, timing, and a deeper receiver mix rather than just reps for the sake of rep counts.

Special teams and run‑game concepts drew positive notes, while short‑yardage struggles underscored why depth and execution still matter. The day produced good, bad, and uncertain signs—injuries to Mattison and Campbell loom; backup QBs Wilson and Ewers showed inconsistency; but the overall tone is that this version of Miami intends to be readier on Day 1, with one more preseason appearance likely for starters.