Dolphins Mailbag: Waiver Claims, Rookie Starters, and Camp Takeaways
The Miami Dolphins may claim around five players off waivers after roster cuts, similar to their 2019 approach. Rookie defensive tackle Kenneth Grant has been the biggest camp disappointment so far, according to the mailbag. The team's growth will be measured by its ability to perform against tougher competition and avoid repeating mistakes.
The Dolphins' roster management strategy mirrors their 2019 approach, when they claimed five players immediately after cutdown day and roughly twenty across the full season. That year's roster was similarly young and rebuilding, suggesting the front office views waiver claims as a primary avenue for adding talent rather than relying solely on free agency or trades.
Training camp still involves players staying at a local hotel, though the official camp period ended with Wednesday's practice before the Atlanta preseason game. Rookie defensive tackle Kenneth Grant has struggled in camp and now faces an injury threatening his Week 1 availability. Several rookies—including tight end Will Kacmarek, tackle Kadyn Proctor, and linebacker Chris Johnson—could start against Las Vegas, though Kacmarek's status is uncertain after being listed as week-to-week.
This story could shape fan expectations for Miami's season, as the team's reliance on waiver claims and rookie starters signals a developmental year rather than immediate contention. The outcome may influence how fans and analysts evaluate the front office's roster-building strategy, particularly if early-season struggles against stronger opponents expose inexperience. The discussion around potential top draft picks like Arch Manning could also affect fan sentiment and media narratives throughout the season, though such speculation remains premature.