MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Miami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel addressed swirling trade rumors Friday, calling them “baseless” as his team prepares to face the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field on Sunday.
“It’s unfortunate for — I personally, not just this year or for this team. Personally, this time of year kind of bothers me for the sake of the individual player that’s having to answer questions about his long-term journey or potential or where he’s playing question on rumors or thoughts of other people,” McDaniel said.
“We’re focused on the Browns and I try not to give legs to any of those rumors, but if I was an individual player, it probably wouldn’t be the greatest thing to hear,” he added. “Fortunately for us is we’ve got a team of players focused on the Browns and I won’t let them stray from that focus with really everything that I can possibly do.”
McDaniel confirmed that the Dolphins expect everyone on the 53-man roster to be available Sunday, except for defensive back Elijah Campbell. Linebacker Tyrel Dodson is expected to clear concussion protocol in time for the game.
McDaniel also praised tight end Darren Waller for his journey through addiction and recovery.
“Darren Waller represents a lot for a lot of people. His story of overcoming is the story — in all relative terms, people have to overcome things. What he’s done with his life, the adversity he used as an opportunity to grow is inspiring to all and shouldn’t be overlooked,” he said.
Browns rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel has shown promise in limited action, something that the Dolphins said they won’t overlook.
“He shows us what he’s capable and certainly makes some very accurate throws … don’t allow him to get comfortable and find a new level of success at this level," he said.
McDaniel also praised the play of wide receivers Jaylen Waddle and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine.
“Jaylen Waddle is one of the major reasons that we’ve been able to uphold some offensive production. Nick and Malik (Washington) have done a lot of off-ball productive things that have earned them the right to be featured in situations as the primary,” he added.
McDaniel stressed that weather forecasts, including heavy rain and wind in Cleveland, will not dictate the Dolphins’ game plan. “You make the opponent the team you’re playing, not the weather,” McDaniel said.
Defensive backs Storm Duck and Rasul Douglas will compete for playing time, McDaniel said, emphasizing that depth and competition are beneficial.
“The best players will play and I think if Storm shows us things that Jack (Jones) can’t do, then Storm will play, but that’s up for the players to decide,” he said.
The Dolphins (1-5) travel to Cleveland to face the Browns (1-5) in a crucial matchup as both teams try to reverse losing streaks.
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