Miami Dolphins' 12 best training camp position battles

MIAMI — In a month the Miami Dolphins will start training camp, and the battles that ensue in those daily practices will shape the makeup of the 2024 team because starting spots and prominent roles will be decided based on performance.

The Dolphins will hold a six-player battle to determine who will be this year’s starting offensive guards. There’s going to be an audition to see which safety starts opposite Jevon Holland, and to decide who serves as the team’s leading tailback, tight end, nose tackle and more.

Allow us to handicap the top 12 Dolphins position battles heading into July’s start of training camp.

Raheem Mostert vs De’Von Achane for starting RB

This duo collectively gained 1,812 rushing yards, 372 receiving yards and scored 30 touchdowns in 2023, but the workload distribution wasn’t even close (550 offensive snaps for Mostert, and 300 for Achane). Achane’s numerous injuries contributed to Mostert, a 2023 Pro Bowl selection, being heavily favored. But if the former Texas A&M standout can stay healthy the snap count might lean a little more in his favor as the Dolphins work to preserve Mostert, who turned 32 in April, for the playoffs.

Durham Smythe vs. Jonnu Smith for the lead TE

Both tight ends will play a significant amount of snaps because Smythe’s blocking will keep him prominent. But the Dolphins’ desire to to threaten the seams of defenses more in 2024 requires Smith’s pass catching skills. If Smith can master the offense at a fast rate, and proves he’s a reliable in-line blocker, the Dolphins will probably lean the tight end snaps in his favor. Smith has been highly productive as the second tight end on each team he’s been on for most of his NFL career.

Jordan Poyer vs. Marcus Maye for starting safety

Poyer and Maye, two NFL veterans who have collectively started 194 regular-season games, have comparable contracts (one-year deals worth $2 million or less), and similar skill sets. Poyer, who is entering his 12th NFL season, is the more accomplished player, and his experience and leadership should help Jevon Holland take the next step as a pro. But Maye’s coverage skills might be more beneficial to the Dolphins’ new defense, keeping things fluid.

Liam Eichenberg vs. Jack Driscoll for starting RG

...continued

swipe to next page