Five Dolphins Players Who Must Elevate Their Game After the Bye
The Miami Dolphins entered their bye week with a mixed bag of results, boasting a 4-7 record that reflects both promise and pressing concerns. After starting the season with a dismal 1-6, the team managed to claw back, winning three of their last four games. Despite their recent success, the Dolphins find themselves at a critical juncture, needing significant contributions from key players to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Chop Robinson
One of the most glaring issues for the Dolphins has been their pass rush. The team ranks among the bottom nine in the league, averaging fewer than two sacks per game. This was expected to be a strength, particularly with the talent of rookie defensive end Chop Robinson, selected in the first round of the 2024 draft. Yet, Robinson has struggled to make an impact, with his last sack coming in Week 2 against the New England Patriots.
Robinson’s statistics tell a story of missed opportunities—averaging just one quarterback pressure per game and still without a quarterback hit this season. However, there are signs of hope. In a recent game against the Washington Commanders, he logged his most significant playing time since the season opener, recording two pressures and one tackle over 37 snaps. With Jaelan Phillips now traded, Robinson has a golden opportunity to establish himself as a consistent force on the line.
Jaylen Wright
After a knee injury sidelined him until mid-October, running back Jaylen Wright has struggled to find his footing. Averaging just 3.3 yards on 15 carries since his return, he has yet to break out in a Miami offense that has thrived this year, ranking first in yards per rush attempt.
Coach Mike McDaniel’s scheme has effectively utilized running backs, with Raheem Mostert and De’Von Achane dominating touches. Wright was expected to step into a significant role after being selected in the fourth round of the 2024 draft, but he has only seen limited action. With Achane performing at a high level, Wright must prove he can shoulder a larger workload to elevate this already potent offense.
Jonah Savaiinaea
The Dolphins traded up in the draft to secure Jonah Savaiinaea, who has started every game at left guard. However, his rookie season has been a challenging one. He has allowed 24 quarterback hurries and four sacks, ranking last among qualifying guards in terms of Pro Football Focus grades.
Despite these struggles, Savaiinaea displayed improvement before the bye, delivering a solid performance against the Commanders, where he allowed just one pressure and no penalties across 53 snaps. As a young player in a critical position, Savaiinaea’s development will be essential for the Dolphins as they look to solidify their offensive line and support their dynamic backfield.
Zach Sieler
Defensive tackle Zach Sieler finds himself in an unusual position this season. With only 30 tackles and one sack after 11 games, his performance has dipped compared to previous years—with 39 tackles and six sacks during the same stretch last season. The absence of stalwarts like Christian Wilkins and Calais Campbell beside him has placed more pressure on Sieler, who has also committed three penalties, matching a career high.
Despite these challenges, Sieler remains a crucial component of the Dolphins’ defensive line. His experience is invaluable, especially with several rookies around him. A strong finish to the season could reaffirm his status as a reliable force for Miami, particularly as he is under contract through the 2026 season.
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine
Wide receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, signed as a free agent to bolster the Dolphins’ receiving corps, has yet to find his rhythm in South Florida. While he has made contributions as a blocker in the run-heavy scheme, his receiving numbers have been underwhelming—11 receptions for 89 yards on just 19 targets.
With Tyreek Hill sidelined since Week 4 and rookie Malik Washington stepping up, Westbrook-Ikhine must find a way to capitalize on his abilities as a downfield threat. Averaging just 8.1 yards per reception, he has seen a sharp decline compared to his previous seasons, where he consistently exceeded 12.5 yards per catch. As the Dolphins look to improve their passing game, Westbrook-Ikhine’s ability to stretch the field could be pivotal in opening up more opportunities for the entire offense.
As the Dolphins prepare for the final weeks of the season, the urgency for these five players to elevate their game could determine the trajectory of a season filled with promise but threatened by inconsistency. With the right adjustments and performances, Miami has the potential to turn their campaign around and make a push for the postseason.
