Miami Dolphins 2023 Preview: As the 2023 NFL season approaches, the Miami Dolphins find themselves with high expectations and potential for a successful campaign. Despite being a playoff contender last year, the team faces a significant question regarding their starting quarterback’s health, Tua Tagovailoa. With a revamped defense and dynamic offensive playmakers, the Dolphins aim to make a deep playoff run. However, they must address some challenges and uncertainties to fulfill their NFL 2023 Super Bowl dreams.
Miami Dolphins 2023 Preview: Balancing Expectations and Concussion Concerns
The Miami Dolphins enter the 2023 season with high expectations following their wild-card berth last year. However, the concern surrounding Tua Tagovailoa‘s concussion history looms large. After suffering two concussions and likely a third last season, the team anxiously awaits Tagovailoa’s ability to stay healthy. If the young quarterback can avoid further injuries, the Dolphins have a legitimate shot at contending for a Super Bowl title.
Defense Revamped: The Impact of Jalen Ramsey and Vic Fangio
The Dolphins made significant moves in the offseason to strengthen their defense. Trading for former All-Pro corner Jalen Ramsey was a headline-grabbing move, pairing him with Pro Bowler Xavien Howard to form a formidable cornerback tandem. Additionally, hiring Vic Fangio as the new defensive coordinator adds a mastermind play-caller to elevate the team’s defense. With these additions, Miami expects a significant improvement in their defensive performance, aiming to rise from their 18th-place finish last year.
One of the biggest gambles for the Dolphins this offseason was their decision not to upgrade to the backup quarterback position. With Tagovailoa’s history of injuries, relying on third-stringer Skylar Thompson and former Jets backup Mike White poses a risk. Miami could have pursued more experienced options like Andy Dalton, Taylor Heinicke, or Gardner Minshew, but they opted to stick with their current backups. This decision might prove challenging if Tagovailoa misses playing time.
The Dolphins will face a challenging start to their 2023 campaign with three road games in the first four weeks. Opening against the Chargers at SoFi Stadium and facing the Patriots in Foxborough for a Sunday night game are tough tests for Miami. Hosting the remodeled Denver Broncos at home and playing against the Bills in Orchard Park, New York, also add to the difficulty of their early-season schedule.
Breakout Player to Watch: LB Jaelan Phillips
Jaelan Phillips, the talented edge rusher, is a player to watch in 2023. With 15.5 sacks over his first two seasons, Phillips possesses the potential to crack the double-digit sack mark. His athleticism and size make him a disruptive force on the defensive line. As his playing time increases, Phillips is poised to make a significant impact on the Dolphins’ defense.
While the Dolphins’ offensive line is not terrible, it does have some weak points and injury risks. Left tackle Terron Armstead’s durability is a concern, having missed 48 games over nine seasons with the Saints. Additionally, right tackle Austin Jackson’s performance has been somewhat disappointing, further highlighting the team’s concerns along the offensive line.
X-Factor: Jalen Ramsey’s Impact
Jalen Ramsey’s addition to the Dolphins’ secondary is an exciting prospect. Despite some concerns about his performance with the Rams in 2022, there is no doubt about Ramsey’s elite talent as a cornerback. Under Vic Fangio’s guidance, Ramsey is expected to thrive, potentially making the Dolphins’ secondary one of the best in the league.
Rookie running back Devon Achane is a player to keep an eye on. Despite a crowded backfield with Raheem Mostert and Jeff Wilson, Achane has the potential to carve out his role, much like Darren Sproles during his prime. In reception-friendly leagues, fantasy managers should consider landing Achane as a valuable No. 4 option.
With several risk factors, including Tagovailoa’s concussion history and potential legal issues surrounding Tyreek Hill, taking the under on Tagovailoa’s passing yards prop seems prudent. The young quarterback has yet to exceed this mark in any NFL season, making it a safe bet given the uncertainties.
The Miami Dolphins face a crucial 2023 NFL season with high expectations, potential, and challenges. Balancing the hopes for a deep playoff run with concerns about their starting quarterback’s health adds intrigue to the team’s journey. The defense’s transformation under Jalen Ramsey and Vic Fangio’s impact, along with the offensive line’s improvements, will play pivotal roles in Miami’s quest for success. With formidable opponents in the AFC East, the Dolphins must rise to the occasion to secure a playoff spot and make 2023 a memorable season.
