Five Dolphins Players Poised for Impact After the Bye
The Miami Dolphins are gearing up for their matchup against the New Orleans Saints on November 30, aiming to capitalize on recent momentum. After a rocky 1-6 start, the Dolphins have found their footing, winning three of their last four games. With a scoring margin of just 22 points over the last month, the team is beginning to gel, showcasing glimpses of complementary football as they head into the season’s final stretch.
Emergence of Kenneth Grant
Defensive tackle Kenneth Grant has faced his share of challenges as a rookie. After a modest debut against the Indianapolis Colts, where he recorded three tackles, his performance dipped to just two or fewer tackles in the next five games. However, Week 7 marked a turning point. Grant achieved a career-high four tackles and four stops while playing 30 snaps against the Cleveland Browns. His recent outings have shown continued improvement, including two tackles and a quarterback hit against the Washington Commanders.
Drafted 13th overall, Grant has accumulated 12 solo tackles and 1.5 sacks in his first 11 games. While his statistics might not reflect it, the development of his skills is crucial as the Dolphins’ defense has allowed 13 points or fewer in three of the last four games. His comfort level on the field is growing, and he is beginning to demonstrate the potential that earned him a first-round selection.
The Versatility of Greg Dulcich
Tight end Greg Dulcich, who began the season on the practice squad, has emerged as a flexible asset for Miami’s offense. Over the past four games, he has caught eight of 13 targets for 89 yards. While his role continues to evolve, he offers a blend of skills that could be beneficial as the season progresses.
Historically, the Dolphins thrive when leveraging the speed of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. Coach Mike McDaniel has shown an ability to adapt his schemes based on available personnel, and Dulcich could serve as a valuable seam threat, aiding in offensive movement between the 20s. Though he won’t likely replicate the high-volume target role seen with Jonnu Smith last season, his contributions can help diversify the Dolphins’ attack.
Rising Star Jason Marshall Jr.
Jason Marshall Jr., a fifth-round rookie out of Florida, had a rocky start as the team’s starting slot cornerback. In his initial three games, opposing quarterbacks completed all seven passes thrown his way for 77 yards and a touchdown. After a hamstring injury sidelined him in Week 3, Marshall has rebounded and appears more at ease on the field.
Since his return, he has recorded a pass breakup in consecutive weeks and missed only one tackle, a stark improvement from the four he missed earlier in the season. His recent performances have included playing 20 snaps on the boundary, showcasing his adaptability. With the cornerback position being a significant need for Miami, Marshall’s development could provide vital depth for the secondary.
Dante Trader Jr.’s Growing Role
Another fifth-round rookie, safety Dante Trader Jr., is also working to carve out his niche. He had a standout performance in Week 9 against the Baltimore Ravens, leading the team with 13 tackles. His versatility has been evident as he has played various roles, including both free and strong safety throughout the season.
Trader has recorded 35 tackles and a forced fumble, but has also struggled at times, allowing nine completions on 11 targets for 165 yards and a touchdown. With the Dolphins in need of consistent depth at safety, Trader’s development is crucial, especially as the team looks to build a more robust secondary.
Darren Waller as a Red Zone Threat
Lastly, tight end Darren Waller has emerged as a potent red zone weapon for the Dolphins. Although he missed last season, Waller has managed to catch 10 passes, with four resulting in touchdowns, over his first four games with Miami.
After making his debut in Week 4 following a hip injury, Waller faced another setback with a pectoral injury against the Browns. Coach McDaniel reassured fans that the injury is not season-ending, and Waller could return as soon as Week 12 against the Saints. While he has struggled to remain healthy in recent years, the Dolphins acquired him with the potential to maximize his red zone impact, where his size and athleticism make him a nightmare for defenders.
As the Dolphins head into the final stretch of the season, these players represent a mix of potential and emerging talent that could help reshape their playoff aspirations. With the bye week behind them, the Dolphins are looking to ignite their season and make a push for the postseason.
