The dolphins depth chart is undergoing significant adjustments as Miami narrows its roster to 53 players before the 2025 NFL season opener. With injuries, breakout preseason performances, and tough coaching decisions shaping the lineup, the depth chart offers fresh insights into how the Dolphins are preparing for Week 1.
Tua Tagovailoa continues to hold the top quarterback spot, but there are new faces and unexpected changes across other positions. From running backs to the secondary, Miami’s roster now reflects both stability in key areas and high-stakes competition in others.
Table of Contents
Quarterback Room Solidified
At quarterback, the Dolphins have chosen consistency with a touch of future planning.
- Tua Tagovailoa remains the starter and centerpiece of the offense.
- Zach Wilson has secured the backup role after an efficient preseason.
- Quinn Ewers, a rookie, rounds out the depth chart, giving Miami a developmental option for the future.
This trio balances experience, reliability, and long-term potential, ensuring the Dolphins are well-covered at the league’s most critical position.
Running Back Shifts
The backfield has seen notable changes due to both performance and injury.
- De’Von Achane is officially the lead running back after a strong preseason.
- Ollie Gordon II, a rookie standout, climbed to the RB2 spot and will see meaningful snaps.
- Jaylen Wright drops down after suffering a leg injury that will keep him sidelined at least through the season opener.
The dolphins depth chart at running back now highlights both explosiveness and youth, a combination that could fuel Miami’s offensive tempo.
Wide Receivers and Tight Ends
The Dolphins’ wide receiver group remains one of the team’s strengths. While the top pass-catchers are locked in, depth decisions have been more challenging. Rookie Tahj Washington is projected to be released after failing to carve out a consistent role in camp.
At tight end, roster shuffling continues. Miami is expected to keep multiple options, with Julian Hill pushing his way into consideration. This position group may still see late adjustments, but the Dolphins appear set on carrying versatile players who can contribute in both blocking and passing roles.
Defensive Line and Linebackers
The defensive front is competitive, with roster spots hanging in the balance.
- Zeek Biggers is fighting to secure his place on the line but remains on the bubble.
- Among linebackers, Cameron Goode and Mohamed Kamara are still battling for roster security.
These position battles highlight how thin the margin can be between making the 53-man roster and being cut at the final deadline.
Secondary Shake-Ups
Perhaps the biggest surprise on the dolphins depth chart comes in the secondary. Veteran cornerback Mike Hilton has been released, paving the way for rookie Jason Marshall Jr. to step into the nickel role. Marshall’s preseason performances proved enough to convince coaches he deserves the opportunity.
Adding to the changes, Minkah Fitzpatrick is back with Miami, giving the defense a proven leader and playmaker in the safety group. His return immediately strengthens a unit that has been under heavy scrutiny in recent seasons.
Special Teams Concerns
Special teams depth is now a serious concern. Kicker Jason Sanders will miss several weeks due to a hip injury, leaving the Dolphins scrambling for a temporary solution. The team is exploring replacement options while also considering whether punter Jake Bailey can handle emergency kicking duties. However, his inconsistency in preseason attempts suggests Miami may need to bring in outside help.
This uncertainty at kicker could prove critical in close early-season matchups.
Dolphins Depth Chart Snapshot (August 26, 2025)
| Position | Starter | Key Backups / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| QB | Tua Tagovailoa | Zach Wilson, Quinn Ewers |
| RB | De’Von Achane | Ollie Gordon II, Jaylen Wright (inj.) |
| WR | Core locked in | Tahj Washington unlikely to remain |
| TE | Rotation ongoing | Julian Hill in mix |
| LB/D-Line | Core set | Goode, Kamara, Biggers on bubble |
| CB | Jason Marshall Jr. | Hilton released |
| S | Minkah Fitzpatrick | Depth pieces still rotating |
| K/ST | Sanders injured | Replacement search underway |
Final Thoughts
The Dolphins’ depth chart is finally taking shape, with some surprise moves and rising young talent reshaping the roster. With Tagovailoa at the helm, Achane leading the backfield, and Fitzpatrick back in the secondary, Miami looks ready to contend. The next few days will lock in the final roster, but one thing is clear—the Dolphins are building a mix of veterans and promising young stars to fuel their 2025 campaign.
What do you think of the Dolphins’ depth chart moves? Share your thoughts and join the discussion below.
