The Miami Dolphins will step up the intensity of their NFL preseason activities on Saturday night as they face the Washington Commanders at Hard Rock Stadium. Unlike their exhibition opener against the Atlanta Falcons, where most starters sat out, the Dolphins are expected to field many key players this time.
Fans will get a first look at quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, along with star players like Tyreek Hill, Raheem Mostert, Jalen Ramsey, and first-round draft pick, edge rusher Chop Robinson. Head coach Mike McDaniel indicated that the plan includes having some starters take the field, although he noted that final determinations would be made by the coaching staff.
However, two significant absences will be noted, as receivers Jaylen Waddle and Odell Beckham Jr. remain sidelined due to injuries. Concern is growing over Beckham, who has yet to practice this summer since signing a $3 million contract.
While it remains unclear how long the starters will play, they are anticipated to participate for about two or three series in the first half. Following their stint, fans will be able to see players vying for final roster spots and presenting their skills for potential teams during upcoming cuts.
As discussions about reducing the length of the preseason and adding an 18th regular-season game continue, these late August matchups highlight the ongoing debate.
Game updates include Jason Sanders missing a 49-yard field goal early in the fourth quarter after the Dolphins advanced into Commanders territory. Miami kicked off the second half with a 33-yard field goal by Sanders, resulting in a 13-6 lead, but the momentum was briefly interrupted when Chris Brooks left the game after a hit.
Earlier in the game, a 38-yard field goal by Riley Patterson brought the Commanders close, yet the Dolphin led at halftime 10-6. Dolphins owner Stephen Ross praised Tagovailoa, emphasizing the importance of retaining talented young players.
Tagovailoa threw a touchdown pass giving Miami a 7-0 lead in the first quarter, completing all five of his passes on the drive. Commanders rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels made his debut, but the team faced challenges with penalties, leading to a missed opportunity at a field goal.
Kickoff for the Dolphins versus Commanders is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Saturday, August 17, at Hard Rock Stadium, and the game will be broadcast on several channels, including CBS in Miami and NFL Network in select markets. Streaming options include NFL+ and various other platforms offering trial periods.