The Miami Dolphins opened 2024 training camp on July 23 with a new focus on discipline. Tyreek Hill and Mike McDaniel lead a team eager to prove doubters wrong.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The humidity is back, the pads are ready, and the Miami Dolphins are officially back to work. But as training camp opened on Wednesday, it wasn't just the South Florida heat that felt different. A palpable new energy, driven by a vow of intense focus from star receiver Tyreek Hill and a series of immediate roster shuffles, has set the tone for a team determined to write a new script for 2025.
This whole offseason, I've been busting my tail... I want to see what it looks like when I just focus on football, on myself and family.
With national expectations cooled after a disappointing 2024, the Dolphins are embracing an 'us against the world' mentality. Head Coach Mike McDaniel and linebacker Bradley Chubb both emphasized a commitment to daily work and ignoring external criticism. The message was driven home by Tyreek Hill, who spoke with conviction about his personal growth and a team-wide need for maturity. 'We have a real chance to be special this year,' Hill told reporters, stressing that talent isn't enough. 'It's about being disciplined and continuing to be a good brother to one another.' This unified front suggests a team eager to prove that its biggest improvements will come from within.
The first day of camp wasn't just about talk; the front office was busy. The team made a key depth signing, bringing in veteran offensive lineman Daniel Brunskill to bolster the trenches. To make room, quarterback Brett Gabbert was waived. However, the most significant news came via the injury lists. Offensive lineman Liam Eichenberg and newly acquired tight end Darren Waller were both placed on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, while safety Ifeatu Melifonwu landed on the Non-Football Injury (NFI) list. These designations mean the players can't practice until medically cleared, creating immediate questions at key positions.
The day-one injury designations immediately put the team's depth to the test. With Eichenberg sidelined, the offensive line's cohesion will be a major storyline. The signing of Daniel Brunskill now looks even more critical, as he provides a veteran presence who can compete for a starting role. At tight end, Darren Waller's absence opens the door for others to earn reps and make an impression early in camp. While these players can be activated at any time, their inability to practice from the jump means the Dolphins are already forced to adapt, making the health updates on Eichenberg and Waller a top priority for fans and coaches alike.
Day one of training camp is in the books, and the narrative is clear: Miami is tuning out the world and turning inward. While the on-field product is yet to be seen, the messaging from team leaders is unified. All eyes will now be on the health of Eichenberg and Waller and whether this renewed focus translates into execution when the pads come on. The first real test is just around the corner, with the preseason opener against the Jaguars on August 10 looming large.
