OK FMU, the schedule is out and that means it’s time to start thinking about “The Fest”. We took a one year hiatus last year, and rightfully so. The direction of our team last season clearly downward under Chris Grier and Mike McDaniel and the mascot for not how to play to win but try and stay healthy, QB Tua Tagovailoa. All of them gone, ALL OF THEM!!! Just like our cap space, which is at rock bottom, the roster has been purged, and purged and purged some more and then we added lots of players, some drafted, some undrafted, but there will be a huge influx of young talent on this roster. To me that’s exciting. I think Sully and Haf have given us a corps of players to root for and I’m genuinely excited. Sully and Haf have preached they want a physical football team that can play anywhere in any kind of weather and this year’s schedule will put that to the test!
We will have plenty of cold games to prove that this team can play anywhere, beginning with a late November game up in Week 11 at Buffalo 11/22. If that’s not quite cold enough, how about playing the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on December 20th? The cherry on top of the Sundae (Sunday?) will be the season finale against the New England Patriots at Gillette Field in Week 18 which is yet to be determined when it occurs, but it will likely be pretty darn cold up in Foxborough. What we won’t have this season, and it’s fine with me is a lot of real hot games in Miami where the heat will be our home team advantage. Week 3 on 9/27 at home against the Chiefs will be the best game for a chance of sweltering and swampy weather. There will only be one game in October, Week 5 against the Bengals. 2 games in November, but the temps will have subsided by then, and the heat advantage is no longer significant at that time.
All that is fine with me, this is a rebuilding year, a culture change season where we more than likely will not be contending for either a divisional crown or even a wild card berth, unless we really shock the NFL. Vegas likes us winning no more than handful of games, and some sites have us less than 5. We won’t be tanking this season, but even if things go better than expected, I don’t believe we’ll be winning more games than last season. I’d be pleasantly surprised if we did, and you’d have to give major props to both Sully and Haf if we do after turning over nearly the entire roster in one season. What’s great for me is I have no expectations. I won’t be holding this team accountable for any particular win total, I just want to see that this team is no longer soft, I want to see us compete and that means at every position and every facet of the game. I want a tough team, one that other NFL teams won’t look forward to playing. I truly believe we were the type of team that teams felt they could bully and dominate. I want opposing teams to say “Oh fuck, we’re playing the Dolphins this week, they really bring it”. This was a soft, pathetic team, born from their Capri pant wearing buddy Head Coach, who didn’t really command the type of respect a Head Coach should get. Also, a QB who was playing not to win every play but instead to stay on the field and play out the entire season, a QB who never stepped out of the comfort zone or put himself in danger in 2025.
Did we do enough to fix the O-line, a problem that has plagued this team for what seems like a decade? I feel very comfortable with the left side of the like with LT Patrick Paul and LG rookie Kadyn Proctor, and of course with borderline All-Pro C Aaron Brewer. Where it gets muddy is the right side. Last year’s 2nd RD trade up Jonah (2 picks) Savaiinaea will be moving to RG, and then RT will go back to Austin Jackson, who played in only 6 games last season. Clearly, the right side has lots of question marks, will Savaiinaea not be a turnstile on the right side and how many games can RT Austin Jackson give us? If Jackson misses time, will rookie 1st RD pick Kadyn Proctor move to RT or do they keep the rookie at one position to make things easier and then have one of the veterans like Charlie Heck or Jamaree Salyer move to RT? I know what I would do, I’d move the rookie Proctor to RT and give us a nice pair of bookend tackles in Paul and Proctor, and then either OG DJ Campbell or maybe Jamaree Salyer can take over the LG spot. I almost feel like it’s inevitable that Jackson will miss time, he’s missed 20 games total the last 2 seasons. It’s almost as inevitable as Tua sliding a yard or two short of a first down on a 3rd down only to watch him pop up in celebratory fashion and do the “First Down” arm gesture.
For those of you who think we’re going to tank this season, that’s NOT how you change the culture. They’ve done what they can in one season infusing the roster with players they believe want to be here and want to work and will adapt the tough personality of their Head Coach Jeff Hafley. Tanking is not the way to change the culture at all, they will be striving to win. Whether we have enough talent to execute wins remains to be seen, but we will not be laying down to try and secure a top 5 pick in the 2027 NFL Draft. That doesn’t mean it won’t turn out that way, but I would not be surprised if we win as many games as we did last season, 7. What are your thoughts? Do you think I’m crazy and we’re lucky if we win 5? Let me know, I want to hear about it . . .
GO DOLPHINS!!!
Finsmob Unleashed 
Well said and thank you, Mike E.!!!
Hey did ElephantRider get a prize for being the only one to predict the record last year? I just noticed because it’s right there –> next to this post.
https://x.com/ArifHasanNFL/status/2055132655927148793?s=20
Difference in “rest days” between games. We are definitely on the wrong side this year.
Good thing we’re a very young team.
From CBS “one good thing, one bad thing” for each team.
Miami Dolphins
One good thing for the Dolphins. The Dolphins will be facing three teams in their first six games that will have a new starting quarterback (Raiders in Week 1, Vikings in Week 4, Jets in Week 7). If Jeff Hafley can have his defense playing at a high level early in the season, the Dolphins could pick up a few victories in that opening span.
One bad thing for the Dolphins. This team has been horrible when the weather drops below 40 — they’ve lost 15 straight games in that situation — so it’s definitely not good news that starting on Nov. 22, they have to play their final four road games in cold-weather cities (at Bills, at Broncos, at Packers, at Patriots). The Dolphins will have a new coach and a new QB (Malik Willis), so maybe they can figure out how to win in cold weather, but if not, it’s going to be a long December once again.
Mike, nice write and your last paragraph is spot on. Tanking is for losers anyway.
Win as many as you can! So, I say 17. Wait…we still play 17, right?
Thanks MikeE!
If we finish with only 3-5 wins, it won’t be because we tanked.
I would not be surprised if we win as many games as we did last season, 7. What are your thoughts? Do you think I’m crazy and we’re lucky if we win 5? Let me know, I want to hear about it . . .
YES
Winning 5 is not out of the question.
No way Proctor gets moved to RT and I don’t want him to be. Let that left side become dominant for years to come. Heck will be a solid backup for Jackson. Maybe Carter Warren makes that jump also. Draft another OT next year to plug in to RT. There will be a decent crop next draft.
I don’t pedíct wins…lol…I want us to win every fucking game..ay
…predict…
Nobody knows what this team looks like yet. It’s all opinion data.
we’re all just opinionating🤪
Just a little tidbit of cool information, Achane has the highest YPCA in the history of the NFL with a minimum of 500 attempts at 5.62.
We haven’t seen our offense or defense yet so how could anyone predict wins. I’m excited to see it play out because there is talent on this roster. This isn’t a gutted one win team or relying on only young unknown players. Once again the national audience is clueless. You don’t re-sign Achane with a long term down the road vision.
Our OL might finally morph into a strength after so many years. To me this group is lead by Brewer who is experienced and a unique talent. He’s like John Randle on offense. Not prototype size but NFL makeup. High level competitors. Then add the huge young guys with Jackson as a vet who’s had an up and down career. You never know when you finally click. This season has that potential to begin a new physical presence.
its certainly possible this team can be good, what does that mean though? A good record, lots of potential, getting better team?
we’ve seen this story before, we don’t know what the ending will be, we’re pretty sure it won’t start pretty
Several of us don’t have any expectations, that can be a good thing and sounds an awful lot like what you’re saying, we don’t know. The record prediction at this time is just how we feel now, and means nothing
Tim,
Stop harshing my mellow, dude. I’m predicting 17 wins, and you can’t stop me!
Seriously though, I still think there is at the very least an average NFL tackle in Jackson. I’ll have to see what he looks like after all this injury and time off stuff, but if he’s healthy and not limited by previous injuries, he’s got the physical ability to be good.
I’m not sure about his mindset either. This is a huge year for him. He can really help his future or hurt it. If he shows he can be an average to above average tackle, somebody will pay him. If he doesn’t, he may become a backup making a lot less.
Friday Night Jams!
OH BOY! I see Digital Underground FINALLY put “Blue View” back out! I’d been asking any and everyone for the last 7 years where it went, after Shock G suddenly decided to delete it from his YouTube account a couple of years before his death.
LUV this song! Beautiful (yet simple) piano, Shock G is singing the blues (no rapping), and it’s somewhat dark yet POWERFUL/POTENT.
Tim,
Sorry, but I don’t see the John Randle comparison. Randle was a physical beast. Strong ass man. He dominated people physically….much bigger guys too…but also cat quick. That’s not what Brewer does.
That’s no disrespect to Brewer in any way. Few players have had the physical gifts Randle had. Brewer is said to be a great leader. Randle really led more by example. He was more of an inspirer. It looks like he’ll be playing between a rookie and a 2nd year player who has a big question mark. He will need to communicate and play very well. I’m excited to see how the OL looks by December. Brewer will be a big part of that.
Not surprised you disagreed. It’s become a pattern. But it’s okay, Brewer is a really talented guy for being undersized just like Randle was.
LUV this song.
Absolutely wonderful…
This was the cool song but WordPress is garbage and just throws replies anywhere. Thanks though.
Phelon,
I cannot get ENOUGH of this song, man!
As the ‘Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ (Will Smith) would say, it’s SUMMERTIME.
1974: Kool & the Gang
Very cool song. Thanks!
prediction
/prēˈdikSHən/
A prediction is a statement or forecast about what someone thinks will happen in the future. It can range from an intuitive guess to a highly educated conclusion based on data, past experience, or scientific calculation.
The Warning’s drummer gets out from behind her kit and does a solo on the piano.
She played the whole 23 song concert at the Pepsi Center in Mexico City elevation 7,300 feet and sick with the flu.
I don’t see the naughty report icon anymore.
Tim – I still see the report button.
it shows after you reply
Phel – I saw it before I replied, but it could be because I’m an Admin, not sure.
Interesting. When I first open the site I don’t see it. Then it pops up after I reply or post.
Mets P Clay Holmes broken fibula after getting hit by a 103 mph comebacker
That’s terrible. When it rains it pours.
I was just thinking how much baseball has changed like the NFL changes. You rarely see any pitchers lasting 8 innings let alone 9 innings anymore. With the DH in both leagues, pitchers don’t have that 9th batter they used to be able to reserve energy on. Heck, they used to be able to reserve energy on batters 7, 8 and 9. Now you have the DH in both with hitters swinging for the fences batters 1 through 9. Many batters are taught to be very selective and run up pitch counts. Pitchers just can’t reserve energy like they used to and have to throw hard all the time. Some, but few can throw hard a whole 9 inning game anymore.
My little league coach was a diehard Nolan Ryan fan. I remember him telling us one practice that Nolan Ryan pitched 13 innings and threw over 200 pitches in one game. That would just be insane in today’s baseball.
Wow, just looked it up on the baseball almanac. Since 2012, no pitcher has thrown more than 6 complete games in a season. Since 2000, only 1 pitcher has thrown double digit (11) complete games. Every year before 2000 there were at least 1 or more pitchers had double digit complete games.
In 1974, pitchers threw 1,089 complete games, 28%.
In 2024, pitchers threw 28 complete games, 0.6%.
Oh, I looked it up.
In 1974 Nolan Ryan threw 235 pitches in 13 innings against the Boston Red Sox with 19 K’s. He got a no decision but his team still won in the 15th inning. That is just crazy!
Tell me the league doesn’t favor certain teams and I will slap you silly.
With the uncertainty of Mahomes being ready the first couple of weeks of the season the NFL obviously tweaked their schedule to favor that as much as they could.
The Chiefs get their first 2 games at home to get that advantage. Then the next 2 on the road but against 2 of the worst teams last year and projected to be 2 of the worst teams this year also in the Dolphins and Raiders.
Then the Chiefs get the earliest bye week possible in week 5.
Tell me this was not an effort to make things as easy as possible for the Chiefs until Mahomes is back.
BBM,
I think Biggers had a decent rookie season. He’s fairly athletic for his size and looks like he feels most comfortable moving and not occupying blocks. It’ll be interesting to see how they use him this season.
I know that Sully and Hafley like our DL a lot. It showed in the draft where we mainly focused on off ball LBs some Edge but no interior DL.
^
I think we’re going to surprise a lot of teams in the trenches this season, both sides of the ball. We seem to be going back to football fundamentals 101, which is so very necessary to team-building. Tony Sparano (RIP) did a dandy of a job in his first year with us in ’08 by doing just that (with some help via the WILDCAT).
It’s the skill-positions that we’re going to be lacking in this rebuild year 1… until Chris Bell returns to full health/acclimated and Chris Johnson gets acclimated to the NFL.
If Malik Willis takes a step forward, it wouldn’t surprise me in the least to see us win more games than Vegas predicts… say two or more.
agreed
our sophomore DTs + Sieler should be better than avg, the surprise will come with the sacks. Chop playing regularly, instead of when Phillips went out, will get him back to his end of rookie yr play. At LDE someone hopefully takes the reigns, if not we have several options to get blitz pressure
We can’t get worse production from Jonah’s position, if he’s not better he’ll be riding, Proctor huge upgrade, if they can stay healthy its going to be our best OL in years
Gotta say, we were certainly spoiled by the prominent Offense we had in ’23: Tua, ‘Reek, Waddle, Achane, and more: The Greatest Show On Surf! What a pleasure it was to witness the excellence.
I hope we can get back to that soon, but it will NOT be based on speed alone. We’re building a team that can win in any climate — home or away — and by dominating the trenches. No more drafting a cat based on speed and potential future injuries.
THAT is how a team should be built. Capri McD and General Grief built an Al Davis approved track-team, far too prone to injuries, on both sides of the ball.
Availability is priority #1.
M13,
I would agree with you other than Achane. His speed is our home run ball. We need to figure out a way to get him going on the road, where his running production dropped by almost 30%. Really good at home though!
Teams seem to have been able to contain him better on the road…or maybe we weren’t using him in the right way. His receiving yardage, specifically, drops in half with the receptions pretty much even. I’d be looking at what happened on those away games and see what needs to be changed.
It’s hard to win games with 15 play drives anymore. We need Achane to be a big play guy and open things up a little for the offense to compete. Another guy doing that too wouldn’t hurt! Lol
100% agreed, man!
M13,
My ex wife was into Enya. I had no idea who she was. I bought her the Shepherd Moons album in the early 90s, I think. I know it was a long time ago, at least! Not my sort of music, but I ended up loving that album. I ended up going out and buying her first album for her too.
I’m a big Enya fan. I have Shepherd Moons and Watermark. Great stuff.
I’ll certainly need to check it out, Tim. Thanks!
I know nothing about Enya but for the song I posted last night. That song is just… MOVING! I’ll have to check out the rest of her music. Thanks!
The Fugees sampled her in their #1 hit, “Ready or Not”. Luv the sound of the song, not the message… I actually boycotted The Fugees when they came to my town in the late 90s for their BS messages of divisiveness, spreading racial hatred.
Anyway, it’s a really good sounding song in terms of melody and it’s instrumentation… here it is…
If memory serves correctly, it was Pras (one of the 3 members of The Fugees) that was found in cahoots with Barack Hussein Obama.
Lauryn Hill once famously stated that she’d rather see a black child die of AIDS than to have any white person listen to her music.
And Wyclef Jean (one of the 3 members of The Fugees) seems to have mismanaged funds to Haiti, his native people (see the Clinton Foundation).
So in conclusion, I really hope Enya got PAID for allowing these commies to sample her music.
If Malik plays well, we win 7 games.
I’m not sure about a lot of things with this team, I am pretty sure Malik will play well, because of his confidence in GB and what he accomplished there. His good play may not equal wins
watching his tape from Tenn, he played alright at times, but looked only a shell of his play at Liberty. In GB he looked like he did in college. Hard to believe he won’t build on his GB play
Tim,
Yes, Watermark. I was thinking Watercolors and wasn’t sure so said nothing. Lol
That isn’t really music I listen to much, but her musicality? Is that a word? I just think how she designs songs is different. I know nothing about music.
She’s extremely talented at composing, singing and playing. I got into her in the early 90’s as well when she was breaking out.
several videos out talking about how the league is changing to be more TE dependent, especially our division with bills having 2 good ones and the rest drafting them this year, plus Henry in NE
Conyers being our most versatile TE, I expect him to be given every opportunity to contribute. Hafley loves these type of players, because of the mismatched they can provide. I mentioned the other day how the Rams use 13 personnel to create mismatches by using TEs split out wide and Puka as a blocker, when running out of 13. We can do the same, if Conyers and others step up
we have the talent to be a good team and surprise everyone, if the cousins remove the wet behind their ears early in the season
if the D doesn’t start the season like it did last year, and can actually stop someone once in a while we’ll be in more games than not
our LBs remind me of NEs early 2000s, ours just don’t have the experience yet
NFL Network: QB Aaron Rodgers returning to Steelers on one-year deal worth up to $25 million
Kyle Louis reminds me of Darren Woodson. I’ve been trying to think of the comparison. College LB switching to safety. Jimmy Johnson drafted him back in the day.
looking at how many LBs we have and how few safeties we have, I see Louis playing safety too. Box S, that can cover.
Having a hard time seeing him playing any significant snaps at LB. Day 1 in camp he’s my SS. He’s going to be covering a lot of TEs too
I guess this is old news….lol.
https://dolphinstalk.com/2026/05/nfl-devon-achane-pay-that-man-his-money/
Malik = Lamar, without the ability to throw 80 yards (strong enough arm, looks like Superman compared to tua)
My wife and I were big New Wave fans. We listened to Long Island station WLIR which then became WDRE in 1987. They had all the new music literally years before the mainstream stations had it. I used to go to a lot of clubs on Long Island, and Malibu on Lido Beach was one of the clubs we went to a fair amount. U2’s first concert in America was at Malibu’s. There’s a documentary about the station WLIR/WDRE and all that music called “Dare to be Different”. It was like reliving my young adult years from 18-24. Enya was playing on thst station way before any of the mainstream stations decided to start playing her music.
Pittsburgh doing just enough to not get a top 10 pick. I like it.
One of my best friends is a Steelers fan and he just despises that they want Rodgers and signed him. He’s tired of being around 9-11 wins every season and then losing in the playoffs, he’d rather have a poor season, get some high picks and get the team better. Most of my other friends are Jets fans and then there’s me the Dolphins fan and not one of us feel bad for him for making the playoffs every season. lol
You listen to it Enya have a hard time staying awake
I’m very happy so many people enjoyed my Enya post on Friday Night Jams!!! She ROCKS!!!
New Age,
Just saw your comments on Friday Night Jams. You’re very welcome, and THANK YOU, man!
The first song “Watermark” is a piece of music that has gotten me through some tough times. The amazing thing about music is you can do happy and sad with just changing some notes.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bPCdsa7hS7M
I tried getting into Enya and just couldn’t do it. There’s like 1 song I like and the rest sound the same.
A lot of guys tried getting into Enya. She’s quite prudish, so it’s not an easy endeavor
Doesn’t she live alone in some secluded castle with no electricity and 13 cats?
Probably, but no guys . . .
LOL @ Mike and Phish
Test
Pass???
Fail actually. I can’t post from my phone now. I can only post from my desk top, and only after receiving “confirmation e-mail” with a code to put in. I don’t know when that shit started or why they think it is required, but it is a pain in the ass and makes this site less accessible.
“He’s going to be better and have more confidence switching back to the right [side of the O-Line]. He has a lot of built-up reps on the right side. That was a conversation we had with Jonah [a few weeks ago]: ‘Hey, you played on the right side. He was excited to be able to have an opportunity if we drafted the right guy to be able to move back over to the right side”
~ Zach Yenser, Miami Dolphins O-Line Coach
that’s the hope, let’s see what happens. No free pass this year for Jonah, that alone should make the OL more competitive on the field
Crabbs thinks Dolphins will be competitive. May not show in the win column. Exactly how I feel.
Probably going to be at least 1 week we get the snot kicked out of us. Nothing like what we saw against Clev, NE, Cin last year
^
Even if Big Jonah shits the bed, at least we have a contingency plan in place with Salyer and DJ Campbell to replace him.
I feel strong about our O-Line this season.
I feel good about the OL too, even without RG being avg, the other 4 are legit
Mike E — I know said could do the Fest this year before, but gonna bow out of organizing it like before. It’s hard for me to get up to the nosebleeds these days (have actually skipped Fest games since the heart attack). Whether Dave & Busters or somewhere else, would be glad to host a Sat dinner. But game day gets tough cause Chef Warren wants to bow out.
I could also set up whoever wants with our group rep, but buying for the whole group means putting it on one credit card and then waiting months for the money back. Or people could just get their own tickets, shouldn’t be pricey this season.
I’m sorry to say all that, but also kept the Fest going for a good number of years. So figure have paid my dues.
GRAND to read you as always, MR. Stanger. IF I can finally make it to a Fest this season, I’ll be sure to be there for Saturday night to meet ya, man!
Thanks M13
Glad to see you posting buddy!
I have been a slacker. But good to see your pretty face as well.
thanks to you and Warren for your years of service and organization..
LOL — do I get a gold watch?
steveccnv
says:
May 18, 2026 at 6:46 pm
I feel good about the OL too, even without RG being avg, the other 4 are legit
———–
Very much agreed, Bro. I can’t help but think that our O-Line is going to be a strength of our ’26 season.
not that I care what the national media thinks, by ranking our O last in AFC, but they don’t think our OL is very good
other than Achane we don’t have an above avg skill player
GB has used a collaborative effort with their pass catchers, pretty much since Adams left, we could do that, while running the ball effectively
I’d rather have a good OL and running game and below avg receivers, than the other way around
Hey Stanger – No worries on not running the Fest, and certainly no apologies necessary. I’m not sure what type of interest we have in going to the game, and maybe we don’t have to sit up in the nosebleeds. Let’s gauge how big (or small) the group is and we’ll take it from there. I know I’d be willing to sit in better seats, maybe others will too. You have paid your dues and more Jon, it is greatly appreciated. We’ll take the temperature of the group and see where we stand, or sit. lol
Glad you are understanding. Take a guage and see where you end up.
I see Trey Moore as more of a Swiss army knife, than any Edge, maybe even more so than Louis. A guy that runs downhill, can cover in zone, maybe even offball LB on passing downs. Like an LB Belicheck would draft, mostly 3rd downs to start, but can be kept on the field and moved around, multiple like Hafley likes
Stanger, I want to add my thanks for the many years you took care of us! You should NOT feel bad about stepping back a bit. You have gone far above an beyond over the years and I for one greatly appreciate it.
Great to see you on here.
Thanks Rock. Any Fest with you at it always had a lot more spark.
Stanger…I’ll echo what everyone else has said. You’ve gone above and beyond!
Thank you so much for all you’ve done. We appreciate it and probably don’t deserve it.
Herd — I’m just glad you started Festing. You are a pleasure to be around.
Same, thanks Stanger! Even though I never made it to a fest, you guys brought people closer together on this blog. Much appreciated!
BBM — I didn’t do anything for you…… your picture is still on my Fest board as the one that got away. Hope you do make.
According to Miami’s new coach, the Dolphins will not be conducting joint practices with the Falcons prior to their preseason matchup — which means Miami’s fans and media will not be seeing Tagovailoa going to work against the Dolphins prior to their scheduled exhibition battle. It’s also possible that the lefty signal-caller could sit out that preseason game due to it being the final one for Atlanta prior to the regular season.
Have we decided on a fest game? I know which one I would choose (Bengals), but I know a couple others might be in the mix.
Stanger, is there a way one of us could take over our group thing you had going or can you provide a contact?
I’m sure I can get them to put someone else on our account. Just need to know who and their contact info. At the very least anyone can start an account of their own.
Miami Dolphins leadership apparently called their shot pre-draft on what it would look like after the first round.
“The Dolphins felt strongly enough about (Proctor’s background) going into the draft that, on the Thursday afternoon of the first round, Sullivan off-handedly remarked to assistant GM Kyle Smith, “Wouldn’t it be cool if we wound up with Proctor and Johnson.” Johnson was San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson—a very clean prospect in a class of flawed DBs, with the three-position flexibility to play corner, nickel and safety—and, yup, the Dolphins got him, too.”
Article by Kyle Crabbs.
https://atozsports.com/nfl/miami-dolphins-news/miami-dolphins-leadership-apparently-called-their-shot-pre-draft-on-what-it-would-look-like-after-the-first-round/
Matt Bowen says the Dolphins should sign LT Taylor Decker when we get our extra cap on 2 June to compete with Patrick Paul.
I don’t see any reason to do that. We are not yet a contender. I could see if you wanted to improve on depth at OT but why sign a vet who will be 33 at the start of the season to compete to be a starter and hinder the development of your already solid LT.
Why spend that money when you still have to sign all our draft picks (Dolphins are the only team not to sign any yet). You need operating money during the season incase of injuries. Plus, that money will cover any incentives reached so it doesn’t come out of your 2027 cap. Then you can carry over what you don’t spend this year.
Use that money to sign a younger/cheaper promising player after final cuts if there is one you like.
that’s so ridiculous it doesn’t even deserve a response, what a buffoon Mattie
lol at our former coach Mickey Mouse already talking about his Chargers exit
https://dolphinswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/dolphins/2026/05/17/dolphins-coach-called-jacob-rodriguez-their-no-1-ranked-guy-in-the-draft/90133928007/
So, not only did they get the 2 first round picks they wanted pre draft, they also got the #1 guy on their board at pick #43.
Is Dolphins luck changing?
Also, if Thumbstash was #1 on their board, that means they didn’t go BPA in the 1st round.
Can’t disagree with any of the kind words going your way Stanger, you’ve gone above and beyond, just take care of yourself
BBMike – I saw that article and my first thought was this is totally idiotic. Since it was ESPN (Disney) and I saw the title of “ESPN writer identifies” I figured it was probably some transgender thing. lol
LOL
In Week 2 of the preseason, Miami will take on John Harbaugh’s Giants, and on Tuesday, new head coach Jeff Hafley revealed that his team will host their NFC East opponent for joint practices leading up to the game.
I went to Falcons joint practice a couple of years ago, it wasn’t as good as a regular practice. I want to see all Dolphins, not some over here and some on the back field. Sure you get to see them compete against another team, but it didn’t make it better
Stuff from today’s OTA practice:
QB assessments
Quarterback Malik Willis threw sharp passes, such as a short one to RB Jaylen Wright, and a pair of 25-yard passes on a rope to wide receiver Jalen Tolbert and tight end Jalin Conyers during drills without a defense. Overall, Willis’ passes were sharp and accurate and his footwork was crisp. He didn’t show much uncertainty and didn’t seem to make the same mistake twice.
Willis had one throw that was unsettling during a second session of 7-on-7, an errant pass to wide receiver Theo Wease Jr., but it was unclear what caused the confusion.
Backup quarterback Quinn Ewers had some nice moments during 7-on-7 sessions and threw a sharp ball overall, including individual drills. Third-team quarterback Cam Miller, who singed late last season, had a nice moment or two in both 7-on-7 and individual drills. It was tough 7-on-7 session for quarterback Mark Gronowski, the undrafted rookie from Iowa, who threw two interceptions, including a pick-six.
Achane worked on the side with a trainer. During the 7-on-7 sessions of the OTAs, Achane stood with fellow running backs, including Jaylen Wright and Ollie Gordon II, apparently offering tips and discussing plays. Achane mostly did agility drills, as opposed to physically challenging drills such as hitting a blocking sled.
This is how my coach was and how Cignetti is: “Teaching was a main focal point Tuesday. Players frequently had to repeat drills not because they messed up but because coaches wanted to perfect their technique.”
Basically, you don’t practice until you get it right. You practice it until you can’t get it wrong.
RT Austin Jackson went inside during the individual drills but returned later.
WR Chris Bell, the third-round pick recovering from a knee injury, isn’t practicing.
G-T Kadyn Proctor, this year’s first-round pick, still appears slim and looks agile during drills. Proctor shows good feet and his size (6-foot-7, 352 pounds) is undeniable.
CB Storm Duck, who missed last season with a knee injury, rode a stationary bike for part of Tuesday’s OTA.
DT Zeek Biggers looked good on a pass rush drill in which players got around a blocking dummy and stripped the ball from the QB, a promising sign for the inside pass rush. DE Josh Uche also looked good in the drill.
CBs JuJu Brents and Jason Marshall Jr. were at the head of the line for CB individual drills.
— QB Malik Willis overthrew Malik Washington on the first play of 7 on 7 with JuJu Brents in coverage.
— Willis completed a short pass over the middle to WR Jalen Tolbert on the next play.
— TE Greg Dulcich made a contested reception during 7 on 7 on a short pass from Willis against Brooks and S Lonnie Johnson Jr.
— QB Quinn Ewers threw incomplete on a deep pass to WR A.J. Henning during 7-on-7 with safties Dante Trader Jr. and Johnson in coverage.
— Trader had a good day in individual drills and 7-on-7 drills.
— QB Cam Miller had a nice short throw to WR Terrace Marshall in 7-on-7 drills.
— Miller had a nice throw to WR Tahj Washington, but Washington, who had beaten the defense on a 30-yard route, dropped the ball.
— DT Jordan Phillips, a surprise last year, showed good aggression during drills, frequently knocking over the blocking sled. Phillips had a good day.
Edge rusher Robert Beal Jr., the fourth-year player, rode the stationary bike for the latter part of the OTA.
— CB Alex Austin had a nice pass breakup against Miller in 7-on-7s.
— For what it’s worth, music is being played at a much lower volume so far during practice.
— Trader Jr. intercepted Malik Willis during a 7-on-7 session. WR Caleb Douglas tipped the ball with an extended arm.
— CB Chris Johnson was active and seemed to have a good day, including nice coverage on Wease on a 7-on-7 play.
— LB Kyle Louis had a pick-six against QB Mark Gronowski.
— CB A.J. Green III had an interception against Gronowski in a 7-on-7 drill late in the OTAs.
Nice write Mike. I can to 10/11 bengals game if we decide to do that one for the fest. Pretty much can do any of them. thanks
they’re playing in Denver this year as well. So I’ll get to see them twice this year. 🙂
it seems like Willis likes to throw the ball to Jaylen, Jalin, and Jaylen lol
Stanger, I was only at two Fests, and everything was awesome. Thanks for everything you have done to make them all successful!
It was great to hang with you bookman.
Sounds like this staff likes Juju Brents. He’s my dark horse for this season. Hopefully he finds a way to stay healthy.
Brents, Duck, Marshall and now Johnson are all in the mix. Let the competition begin.
Yes sir, I like it!
Competition everywhere. (Except QB) That has to be good for the future of the team
There is still the hope that last years guys will breakout and the team be much better than anticipated with just the growth of the young guys already on the team. (Duck, Brents, Marshall)
There is QB competition, it’s just that we really want to see what Malik Willis can do as the starter at this point in his career. It’s really no different than any other team who wants to take a good look at a specific guy. If they don’t produce they will not be starting anymore. I think Ewers is good competition for Willis.
Stanger – Many thanks for past efforts. We should rename the fest to the Stanger Fest.
As always I’ll be fest tentative, depending on travel, hunting, and work. But I’ll buy a ticket regardless of which one is selected. 10/11 would probably work for me. I think that’s between a trip to Europe and pheasant hunting in SD.
You wouldn’t want my name on the thing. But was great to hang, and hopefully will be again. Not like I am moving to Africa.
Speaking of Quinn Ewers (and I know it’s very, very early in the process with new leadership and a second-year QB), I hear that he’s made a VERY good impression on our coaches.
Ewers reportedly has the confidence, the poise, and he can make every throw asked of him… he just needs to learn when and when not to take risks.
It’s possible we have something in young Quinn. Again, it’s early… we’re not going to hear anything bad about anybody at this point in May OTAs, unless one incurs serious injury.
Or off-the-field BS.
M – Missed Friday Night Jams, but here’s one for you:
https://youtu.be/YQJECqzC8Yw?si=Vec3KYnhfS4dmBo2
That was absolutely delightful!!! THANK YOU for sharing that, man!!!
Delilah “Delightful” Raine is what I’ll call her. So smooth, so cool, so sophisticated, and so blues. LUV IT!
Just added her to my music fav files.
Shock G – Piano Man Blues (Official Vizualizer) (Presented by Solo Piano Group) (2022)
Twice – Any chance you could put up a poll for the 2026 Stanger Fest?
The choices would be 9/27, 10/11, 11/1 and 11/8
Thanks bud!
You are absolutely reading my mind, Mike E: ‘Stanger Fest’. In the same vein as ‘Howie’s List’.
I hope Howie is still with us, even though he doesn’t post any longer.
Paul and Proctor are going to maul people. Brewer is a very athletic center who gets to the next level. Achane is going to feast. Willis and Co. will have time to throw. Miami is being downgraded because of lack of skill players but the pundits are ignoring the LOS. I will be shocked if we’re not good on defense and we can’t run the football.
+100000000000
Tim, did you see what I posted yesterday regarding Big Jonah? I think we just might have an incredible O-Line this season. Time will tell, of course.
Our OL has the potential to be very good.
M – Phelon coined the name Stanger Fest
Phelon is a very good man.
I never did the Miami fest but I did do a NYC gathering at a bar when we played the Raiders in 2010 and a Met Life takeover against the Jets in NJ with so many Mobsters. I’ve met Stanger, Mike E, Ken, Piggy, NJ, Brian, Al from NJ, Mike’s nephew the chef and I feel bad if I left anyone out.
Stanger, you’ve been the guy for years. You should be receiving gifts from people, not apologizing. The game I met you was the takeover against the Jets, you came back to our section with beers and brats for Mike E and I. I will never forget your generosity. That was a really fun day.
Mike E picked me up at my house in a Haitian canoe (Ford Mustang) which was not far from Met Life Stadium. We did the Jerky Boys skits/pranks along the way. Mike was better at it than me but I loved it, he made me crack up. I’ll have my shoes and glasses so I have them. 😂
LOL Tim – The Haitian Canoe was a Subaru Legacy, otherwise everything else is correct
Ha you know the only reason I even mentioned the make of the car was because you’ve talked about your Mustang forever. Other than that I really don’t even remember anything about the car. 😂
It sucks to hear that Jackson is not practicing (even with no pads!) If it’s his foot still, we may have problems.
Also, I wonder what Achane had done? He is not practicing or even riding the stationary bike like some of the other guys. What’s up with that?
You guys should temper your expectations. This line is NOT good and it is NOT deep. One more injury and we are shuffling again.
They were doing a lot of physical drills running through dummies and hitting the sleds. Hafley was hammering them trying to knock the ball out.
Probably has something to do with Achane’s shoulder.
OTA’s are still voluntary, but glad to see everyone there even if not fully participating.
Talking about Kenneth Grant, Jordan Phillips and Zeek Biggers, Hafley said they did a really good job last year. Said they have been working really hard and were in the building when he got to the Dolphins facility and never seemed to leave. They have been there all off season in the weight room working with Strength and Conditioning Coach Todd Hunt.
Hafley also said that DL Coach Austin Clark has done a really good job with them. I guess that is why he was one of the coaches Hafley retained from the previous staff.
I am really glad to hear this about Kenneth Grant. I know weight was a concern when we drafted him. He should be in good shape as long as he sticks with it during the summer break.