Five Things to Watch in Dolphins’ Preseason Bout with Lions

The Miami Dolphins stay up north for Week 2 of the preseason, this time squaring off with the Detroit Lions. It has been a lively week, with fans and media alike, let’s be honest, overreacting to joint practices. These sessions are not about wins and losses. They are about putting in the work, sharpening execution, and laying the foundation for Week 1.

With the regular season drawing closer, Miami still has plenty of positional battles to sort out. As they take the field in Detroit, here are five storylines worth keeping a close eye on.

1. No Starters for Miami

Head coach Mike McDaniel confirmed after Wednesday’s practice that the starters are unlikely to play:

“As of right now, I’m not planning on playing the ones in the game. This practice does participate in the overall final assessment that I’ll make with the coaching staff tomorrow, but as of right now, went into this practice planning for the ones not to play.”

That opens the door for young players and depth pieces to seize the spotlight.

2. Ollie Gordon’s Expanded Role

Rookie running back Ollie Gordon made a strong NFL debut against Chicago, ripping off a 20-yard run on his very first snap. He finished with 8 carries for 33 yards, a touchdown, and involvement in the passing game. With starters sitting, Gordon should again get significant opportunities, sharing the backfield with Jaylen Wright, Aaron Shampklin, and Mike Boone.

3. Backup Quarterback Battle

The Dolphins invested in Quinn Ewers and Zach Wilson to stabilize what was a disastrous backup quarterback situation last season. Week 1 against the Bears was underwhelming for both. If Tua Tagovailoa were to miss time, Miami needs at least one of them to show they can run a competent offense. Efficiency, decision-making, and consistency will be key points of evaluation against Detroit.

4. Who Emerges at Cornerback?

With Jalen Ramsey traded and Kader Kohou lost for the year, the CB2 job opposite presumed starter Storm Duck is wide open.

The competition includes young corners Kendall Sheffield, Cam Smith, Jason Marshall Jr., and Ethan Bonner, alongside veteran Jack Jones, who currently has the inside track. Smith, a 2023 second-round pick, has faced criticism from McDaniel for his availability and could even be a surprise cut. Without an upgrade through a veteran like Asante Samuel Jr. or Rasul Douglas, this could remain one of Miami’s biggest concerns in a pass-heavy NFL.

5. Offensive Line Depth Under Pressure

Miami quarterbacks took six sacks last week behind the backup offensive line. The Dolphins signed former Patriot tackle Yodny Cajuste this week to add depth, and he is likely to see plenty of action. Players like Larry Borom, Daniel Brunskill, Braeden Daniels, and Kion Smith also have a lot to prove as Miami searches for reliable depth up front.

Spotlight: Dante Trader Jr. at Safety

Rookie safety Dante Trader Jr. (5th-round pick, Maryland) has been solid in camp and now has a chance to separate himself. With McMorris and Saunders underwhelming in Chicago, Trader should get extended looks against Detroit. Former Lion Ifeatu Melifonwu could also see snaps against his old team.

Other Storylines to Monitor

• Wide Receiver Depth: With Tahj Washington locking down the WR5 role, who claims the final spots? Erik Ezukanma, Dee Eskridge, Andrew Armstrong, and Khalil Black are all battling.

• Tight End Production: Can the group show more consistency after a quiet opener?

• Young Defenders: Expect more reps for Derrick McLendon and Eugene Asante as they push for roster spots.

• Special Teams Battle: Punter competition between Ryan Stonehouse and Jake Bailey continues, while coverage units look to build on last week’s success.

Final Word

Preseason is not about the scoreboard. It is about depth, development, and finding answers before September. With the starters on the sideline, Saturday’s game against Detroit offers a huge stage for Miami’s young players and roster hopefuls to make their case.