Four weeks, 18 practices and one road trip, and training camp has concluded. The Dolphins are in Tampa for their Friday preseason finale following one joint session with the Buccaneers on Wednesday.
Here are the highlights from the day:
Practice 18, August 21, 2024
Top Moment
As the 2024 season approaches, the Dolphins offense looks in-sync in these joint practice sessions. It's what Dolphins fans would hope for as the key parts all return, the system is entering its third iteration, and some offseason additions were made to shore up the few weaknesses from last year's No. 1 ranked attack.
On the other side, new Defensive Coordinator Anthony Weaver and his unit have challenged the league's top offense from a year ago all throughout camp. On Wednesday, they got another shot against a different opponent and shined.
The Buccaneers had trouble finding their footing – in both the run and pass game – all day. It started up front with defensive tackles Zach Sieler and Calais Campbell. The pair combined for three sacks and a handful of run stuffs. Campbell ended practice with a snap from the 2-yard line going in with a pass deflection that sent the Dolphins sideline into an eruption.
Linebackers Jordyn Brooks, David Long Jr. and Quinton Bell all had tackles for loss, and the Bucs never had a run go for longer than five or six yards.
Top Quote
The continuity on offense has afforded Head Coach Mike McDaniel and his staff the opportunity to take a deliberate approach to expanding the scheme. Wednesday, McDaniel spoke about the benefits of a third year and the communication boost it figures to give the offense.
The more elite technique that we are able to put on tape, the faster the process goes for all new players. I think that is what you’re looking for. Year 3, you kind of expect that, but players have to earn that or work towards that and I think they really have leaned into it, found new ways to get better, while sharpening their axe for the stuff that they’re good at. Dolphins HC Mike McDaniel
More Top Performers
Tight end Jonnu Smith punctuated a strong camp with another big day. He caught passes in every period, contributed as a blocker and provided a big presence on the sidelines.
"I think he is a galvanizer," McDaniel said. "The energy he brings to the game, how connected the team is at this stage. I think we've been a very close team the last couple years and I think we're much further along in those relationships and so that's exciting for us."
Cornerback Storm Duck picked off Bucs quarterback Baker Mayfield in one-on-ones before taking one back for a touchdown from Kyle Trask during 11-on-11. Duck, Ethan Bonner and Kendall Fuller provided tight coverage throughout the session.
The running game found space, particularly on the outside. Running backs Raheem Mostert and De'Von Achane both scored long touchdowns among several runs that saw the backs find open space.
For more analysis on Dolphins training camp, download the Drive Time Podcast with Travis Wingfield – available on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.
