The Miami Dolphins held a joint practice with the Detroit Lions in suburban Detroit, showcasing a mix of impressive plays and areas needing improvement. This practice was pivotal as both teams are fine-tuning their rosters ahead of the upcoming season. Below are key observations from the session, including notable performances from players and tactical updates.
During the Lions' final possession, quarterback Jared Goff connected with tight end Shane Zylatra for a 6-yard gain. Dolphins cornerback Mike Hilton made a crucial play by breaking up a deep ball intended for receiver Kalif Raymond. Goff managed to scramble for a 4-yard first down, but Minkah Fitzpatrick quickly responded with a sack on the next play, highlighting the Dolphins' defensive pressure. After a brief pause in play, Goff completed a 21-yard pass to Amon-Ra St. Brown and followed it with a 7-yard connection to Jameson Williams. However, the Dolphins' defense held strong, forcing a field goal that ultimately ended the practice.
Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa started the practice strong but faced challenges later on. He began one late-practice possession with an incomplete pass, followed by a throw behind Dee Eskridge on a critical third-and-7. Despite the Lions potentially committing pass interference on the plays, Tagovailoa's fourth-down pass to Tarik Black also fell incomplete. Nonetheless, Tagovailoa's early sharpness remains a positive takeaway as he gears up for the season.
The Dolphins' defense had its ups and downs during the practice. Cornerback Storm Duck made a notable pass breakup, attempting to secure his starting position. However, a lapse occurred when Goff connected with St. Brown on a third-and-16 play. Later, safety Ifeatu Melifonwu stepped up by breaking up a throw intended for the end zone. Despite some strong moments, the Dolphins struggled to consistently pressure Goff throughout the practice.
In red-zone drills, Tagovailoa found tight end Tanner Conner for a 7-yard gain, but Lions defensive back Brian Branch quickly halted Jaylen Wright for no gain on a running play. After a false start from the Dolphins offense, Tagovailoa threw a touchdown pass to Malik Washington, showcasing some of the offensive capabilities that have been highlighted during training camp.
During a late possession led by backup quarterback Zach Wilson, he connected with Andrew Armstrong and Theo Wease Jr. for significant gains, indicating the depth the Dolphins are cultivating at the receiver position. The new running backs also made their presence felt, with Alex Shampklin and Mike Boone contributing to a touchdown drive.
Injury updates were a focal point of the practice as well. Tyreek Hill (oblique), Jaelan Phillips (lower body), and several other players remain sidelined. However, linebacker Chop Robinson made a noteworthy return to the field after being carted off the previous day, further bolstering the Dolphins' defense.
The Dolphins’ joint practice with the Lions provided valuable insights into both teams' preparations for the season. With standout performances from Tua Tagovailoa and a few defensive highlights, there is much to look forward to as the Dolphins finalize their roster. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the team heads into the final stretch of training camp.
