Miami Dolphins training camp mailbag: Jaylen Wright, Ollie Gordon II

MIAMI GARDENS ― The Miami Dolphins training camp is about to head to the Virginia/Washington D.C. area, with an upcoming joint practice and preseason opener at the Commanders.

First-year coach Jeff Hafley has tried to set a tone of toughness, accountability and effort.

Quarterback Malik Willis is trying to make the most of an opportunity to start.

And 13 draft picks are working to catch up to speed to play right away, notably Kadyn Proctor, Chris Johnson, Jacob Rodriguez and Caleb Douglas.
training camp mailbag

Q: What are your thoughts on the backup running back competition so far through camp? – @fantasytags

Joe: There hasn’t been much separation between Jaylen Wright and Ollie Gordon, but I really like the positive steps I’m seeing from Wright this summer. He is faster than Gordon. He looks really fast right now. And JW seems to have a rejuvenated perspective with a new coaching staff.

Q: Does it appear that the Dolphins will have enough Offensive Weapons to get a good read on the viability of Willis as a longer term starter? – @RAJCane9

Joe: De’Von Achane, Greg Dulcich, Malik Washington, Caleb Douglas and Chris Bell (when he returns) is not the worst offensive skill position group in NFL history. No, seriously. I mean Achane is the best player on the team. Dulcich is a capable receiver. Washington is solid. Douglas is rising. Bell has a high ceiling. In short, no excuses. Willis must lift his offense and lift his team.

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Q: How has Jonah & the oline look – @stevemadden_111

Joe: Jonah Savaiinaea appears improved but we must consider he was one of the worst NFL linemen as a rookie, especially in terms of pressures allowed. If Austin Jackson stays healthy, and Kadyn Proctor plays as expected at left guard, Miami can have an above-average NFL offensive line.

Q: Is there a reason not to move (Kadyn) Proctor to RT and have (Austin) Jackson go to LG, where he has played before? – @Capt_Cavephin

Joe: The Dolphins believe Proctor is an offensive tackle of the future. But they believe having Austin Jackson at right tackle gives them the best chance to win in 2026. Jackson is better at tackle than guard. When healthy, he is an above-average NFL tackle, capable of making big blocks in the run game. We’ll likely see Proctor at RT (or LT) in 2027.

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Q: Would this be the worst thing that could happen this year – Exceed expectations at 7-10 or 8-9 and no playoffs and no top draft pick? Would feel very familiar. – @Skip_1951Joe: If the Dolphins win seven or eight games, likely all of these things would have to happen: Malik Willis appears to be the QB of the future and these players take very big steps forward: Caleb Douglas, Chris Bell, Kadyn Proctor, Jonah Savaiinaea, Kenneth Grant, Chop Robinson, Jacob Rodriguez and Chris Johnson. If all those things were to happen, it would be worth having a lower pick.

Q: Obviously its training camp but how has the offense looked compared to last year? More run/pass heavy? Probably way less pre-snap movement. – @JacobDByrd

Joe: They are going to run the ball more. I believe there will be less pre-snap movement with first-year coordinator Bobby Slowik. Look, Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle aren’t walking through that door. It’s a different offense. Let’s hope Miami can be more physical and more aggressive and tougher.

Q: The only question I have is for CEO and President Dan Sillman. When are you planning to bring back the original Dolphins uniforms and logo permanently?. That’s what every fan wants. – @Orli88704562

Joe: I agree. I promise to ask Mr. Sillman the next time I see him.Q: What position groups will the dolphins be making claims for during roster cuts? OL? WR? Qb? – @easterly1

Joe: I think you’re on it. Miami has to be scouring the wires for an OT, and a WR and perhaps a QB. They could also perhaps use an EDGE. But who doesn’t need more depth at those positions? I think Miami will stick with adding guys in the 22-26 age range. Why add old veterans? Miami should fill its practice squad out with first- and second-year players.

Joe Schad is a journalist covering the Miami Dolphins and the NFL at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach him at jschad@pbpost.com and follow him on Instagram and on X @schadjoe. Sign up for Joe’s free weekly Dolphins Pulse Newsletter. Help support our work by subscribing today.