MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — With the preseason wrapping up Saturday, Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel — who hinted earlier in the week that his starters would see action in the finale against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Hard Rock Stadium — gave quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and the first-team offense three drives against Jacksonville’s backups.
The first two drives didn’t bode well, as Tagovailoa was sacked on back-to-back possessions and the Dolphins gained just one yard on six plays.
McDaniel, of course, was not a happy camper, giving his first-team group another drive to prove themselves.
It paid off.
Wide receiver Malik Washington caught all three of his targets for 41 yards, including a 25-yard touchdown in which he made a slick juke move to shake a Jaguars defender.
Miami’s third drive covered nine plays and 61 yards, draining 3:54 off the clock.
The Dolphins lead 8-6 at halftime.
Despite Tua Tagovailoa, Zach Wilson, and rookie Quinn Ewers each taking two sacks, the Dolphins finished their preseason strong, defeating the Jaguars, 14-6 – closing out the preseason 2-0-1.
Injury updates per McDaniel:
Running back Jaylen Wright, who didn’t dress on Saturday, is in the “week-to-week” category, with McDaniel saying the team is evaluating “a couple of options procedurally.”
Linebacker Jordyn Brooks was dealing with a minor injury from the team’s joint practice with Jacksonville, causing McDaniel to sit him out.
Tight end Darren Waller, activated off the physically unable to perform list earlier in the week, took part in team warm-ups, but didn’t play. McDaniel called it “very intentional,” with McDaniel making it clear that there are no setbacks.
Oddly enough, kicker Jason Sanders wasn’t available on Saturday. Coach McDaniel said Sanders told him he “was going to kick extra points,” but McDaniel wanted to work on a successful 2-point try. Sanders should be available Week 1 against Indianapolis.
There are no setbacks for running back De’Von Achane, who has been recovering from a calf injury. Coach McDaniel said he looks forward to seeing Achane back at practice soon.
Offensive lineman Liam Eichenberg remains the lone player on the physically unable to perform list. McDaniel: “I don’t foresee him being an immediate return. I don’t foresee it being season-long.”
Copyright 2025 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.
