The Miami Dolphins have added veteran running back Alexander Mattison during this offseason, expecting to leverage his versatility within head coach Mike McDaniel’s offense. Mattison described himself as “a very versatile back” who can play a physical, downhill style, expressing eagerness to demonstrate his range of skills beyond just speed.

While Mattison embraces the challenge, the Dolphins are also managing injury issues among key players. Fullback Alec Ingold has been placed in concussion protocol, and cornerback Cam Smith’s availability remains uncertain as he continues to recover. Mike McDaniel noted,

“We’re all awaiting his ability to stay on the field. So every time there’s a setback, we try to assess … I like the stuff that he’s doing and his development on the field.”

Tua Tagovailoa Focuses on Staying Healthy for Future Success

After missing four games last year due to a concussion and the final two with a hip injury, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is taking proactive steps to protect his health ahead of the 2025 season. He emphasized the importance of avoiding unnecessary risks on the field, stating,

“Me not putting myself in situations where I’m not available for my team, and then we take it from there.”

Tagovailoa recognizes that maintaining his health is essential not only for personal performance but also for the team’s goals. He believes that his availability offers Miami the best chance to achieve their ambitions in the upcoming season.

Addressing Last Season’s Disappointment and Team Resilience

Reflecting on the Dolphins’ 8-9 record which excluded them from the playoffs, Tagovailoa acknowledged the criticism surrounding the team but stressed a focus on response rather than external opinions.

“A lot of the guys on the team, we hear the noise, we hear all that, but it’s OK,”

he said.

“It’s OK for people to have their opinions. What are we going to do about it?”

This attitude underlines a determined mindset as Miami prepares to rebound and improve its standing in the highly competitive NFL environment.

Young Quarterbacks Show Promise During Training Camp

Rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers has impressed during Dolphins camp, fully embracing the team‘s system and internal guidance. Tagovailoa commented,

“I think Quinn has been balling. I think he’s been buying into what he’s been told in the quarterback room and then things that he’s taken from the meeting rooms. With Mike’s meetings, ‘Slow’s’ [senior passing game specialist Bobby Slowik] meetings, and ‘Bev’s’ [quarterbacks coach Darrell Bevell] meetings, and he’s been able to take that out here on the practice field.”

Tagovailoa also praised Zach Wilson, who is competing for the backup quarterback position. Head coach Mike McDaniel confirmed Wilson currently holds the role but recognized Ewers as a strong competitor.

“Zach [Wilson] is the backup quarterback,”

McDaniel said.

“There’s no such thing as non-competition and I think Quinn [Ewers] is the type of person that is every day trying to make a real competition. Right now it’s not like that in my mind.”

Other NFL Updates Highlight Player Health Challenges

In related league news, New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel indicated that wide receiver Kendrick Bourne is unlikely to practice after sustaining an injury during a scrimmage. Defensive backs Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis III are also expected to miss upcoming practices ahead of their game against Washington.

Health and Leadership Set the Course for Miami’s 2025 Campaign

As the Dolphins confront roster challenges and aim to improve on last year’s near-playoff miss, Tua Tagovailoa’s dedication to managing his health will be crucial. His leadership, combined with promising quarterback talent in Quinn Ewers and Zach Wilson, sets a foundation for growth under Mike McDaniel’s guidance. The team’s ability to navigate injuries and foster competition will likely shape their trajectory this season, with hopes to return to postseason contention and build sustained success.