The Miami Dolphins' joint practice with the Washington Commanders was a mixed bag, with the Dolphins struggling in execution but displaying physicality. The highlight of the day was rookie wide receiver Caleb Douglas, who stood out against the Commanders' defense, showcasing his skills and earning a "stock up" rating from the South Florida Sun Sentinel's David Furones and Chris Perkins. This performance builds on his impressive showing during training camp, where he has been a standout against the Dolphins' own defensive backs.
However, the practice wasn't all positive for the Dolphins. They were beaten by the Commanders on both offense and defense, indicating areas where they need to improve. The Dolphins' struggles are a concern, especially given their upcoming preseason game against the Commanders. The team's performance against another team is a crucial step in their preparation for the 2026 season, and it will be interesting to see how they bounce back and improve their execution.
One area of focus is the Dolphins' offense, particularly the performance of quarterback Malik Willis. Willis was forced to showcase his scrambling ability to evade pressure, which is a positive sign for his development. However, the team's overall performance against the Commanders suggests that there is still work to be done to ensure a strong start to the season.
The Dolphins' running back, De'Von Achane, is also a key player to watch. With a league-leading 5.7 yards per carry in 2025, Achane is projected to have a major workload in 2026. His performance against the Commanders will be crucial in assessing his readiness for the upcoming season.
In terms of team strategy, the Dolphins' acquisition of Caedan Wallace adds versatility and competition at the guard and tackle positions. This move is a strategic one, aimed at improving the team's depth and competition. Additionally, the Dolphins' plan to play Willis in the upcoming preseason game against the Commanders is a positive step in his development and the team's overall preparation.
Despite the mixed results of the joint practice, the Dolphins' focus on improving their execution and physicality is a positive sign. The team's upcoming games and practices will be crucial in assessing their progress and identifying areas for improvement. The Dolphins' performance against the Commanders is a reminder that the season is just around the corner, and the team must continue to work hard to achieve success.
