Miami Dolphins secure Jaelan Phillips & Jaylen Waddle through 2025. Rookie Jaylen Wright impresses at June 2025 OTAs. Get the latest on Fins' future moves!
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Big news out of Miami Gardens today, Fins fans! The Dolphins have officially exercised the fifth-year options on two of our brightest young talents, linebacker Jaelan Phillips and wide receiver Jaylen Waddle. This move locks them both in through the 2025 season, securing cornerstone pieces on both sides of the ball as the team continues to grind through the offseason program.
Rookie RB Jaylen Wright is turning heads, reportedly bringing his electrifying 7.4 yards per carry college average to the practice field.
It's a fantastic sign of faith from the front office, ensuring that two of the team's most impactful playmakers will be wearing aqua and orange for the foreseeable future. Phillips has been a disruptive force on the edge, and Waddle's game-breaking speed is a constant threat to opposing defenses. Securing their futures now allows the team to focus on building around this exciting core.
Speaking of speed, rookie running back Jaylen Wright continues to make waves at OTAs. The Tennessee product, known for his explosive playmaking (averaging 7.4 yards per carry in college!), is reportedly impressing coaches with his burst and ability to add a new dynamic to the backfield. He's not the only one turning heads, though. During Day 5 of OTAs, backup QB Zach Wilson showed improved timing, notably connecting with rookie tight end Jaylen Conjurs and receiver Tariq Black, including a deep 40-yard strike. On the defensive side, rookie linebacker Eugene Asante snagged an interception off fellow rookie QB Quinn Ewers. Meanwhile, receiver AJ Henning and Ewers are building chemistry in seven-on-seven drills, and running back Ali Gordon III showcased his agility with a sharp cutback run. Cornerback Kendall Sheffield, a May tryout signee, is also making a strong case for a roster spot with his continued standout play. The intensity is palpable as players fight for their roles.
While the on-field action is heating up, the front office is still busy. The Dolphins are working to sign their final remaining draft pick and are actively evaluating veteran talent to bolster positions of need. Names like guard Brandon Scherff and defensive backs Justin Simmons, Stephon Gilmore, Rasul Douglas, Asante Samuel Jr., and Mike Hilton are reportedly on the radar. This aggressive approach shows the team isn't content and is looking for every opportunity to improve. However, the Jalen Ramsey situation continues to loom. The Pro Bowl cornerback's future with the team remains uncertain as management seeks a suitable trade partner and fair compensation. It's a delicate balancing act between immediate needs and long-term roster construction.
The importance of this offseason program isn't lost on the players. On Travis Wingfield's 'Drive Time' podcast, offensive lineman Austin Jackson highlighted the benefit of coaching continuity, specifically praising his work with offensive line coach Butch Barry. Stability in coaching can make a huge difference in player development. Defensive lineman Zach Sieler also chimed in, discussing the process of adapting to new teammates' play styles, emphasizing the team's focus on building chemistry. These insights show a team that's not just going through the motions but actively working to gel and improve.
With OTAs winding down and mandatory minicamp on the horizon, the Dolphins are making crucial decisions and fostering the competition needed to build a contender. Keep an eye out for more roster moves and how these young talents continue to develop as we inch closer to training camp!
