Miami Dolphins 53-Man Roster Projection: Chris Grier Takes a Risk at QB

The 2023 Miami Dolphins ranked in the top five in almost every major statistical category, so it makes sense that Mike McDaniel largely wants to run it back.

That familiarity makes filling out the first 53-man roster projection and offensive depth chart of 2024 relatively straightforward. Here is our first attempt at piecing together the Dolphins’ offensive roster.

Miami Dolphins 53-Man Roster Projection

Of the 25 players on this list, all but six were part of the NFL’s No. 2 scoring offense in 2023.

The only way we envision significant changes is if the Dolphins spend money in the coming weeks on offensive guard and wide receiver (which certainly isn’t out of the realm of possibility).

Quarterback (2)

Starter: Tua Tagovailoa

Backups: Mike White

The Dolphins in 2023 carried three quarterbacks the entire season. That decision presumably was due in part to concerns that Skylar Thompson wouldn’t make it through the waiver process without getting claimed.

But a year later, with 11 new quarterbacks drafted, that’s probably not as big of a worry. And if for some reason Thompson is poached, don’t dismiss the Dolphins going with UDFA Gavin Hardison as their scout team QB.

Running Back (5)

Starter: Raheem Mostert

Backups: Alec Ingold, De’Von Achane, Jaylen Wright, Jeff Wilson Jr.

Wilson gets the nod over Salvon Ahmed and Chris Brooks in the three-way battle for one roster spot because he’s probably the best short-yardage pack on the roster.

If the Dolphins can’t get anything in terms of a trade for Ahmed or Brooks, expect one (if not both) to land on the practice squad.

MORE: How Will the Dolphins Use the NFL’s Most Dynamic RB Group?

Wide Receiver (6)

Starters: Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle

Backups: Braxton Berrios, River Cracraft, Malik Washington, Erik Ezukanma

This list will look a bit different if the Dolphins can ever work out a contract with Odell Beckham Jr.

OBJ would presumably take Ezukanma’s spot on the roster, although if either Malik Washington or Tahj Washington proves that they are ready to be the team’s No. 1 slot receiver, it’s not out of the realm of possibility that Berrios gets moved.

Tight End (3)

Starter: Jonnu Smith

Backups: Durham Smythe, Julian Hill

Smith and Smythe are locks to make this team. Beyond that, it’s anyone’s guess.

We gave Hill the nod for the third spot based on upside, but it is telling that the Dolphins signed Jody Fortson and brought back Tanner Conner for a third season.

Offensive Line (9)

Starters: Terron Armstead, Isaiah Wynn, Aaron Brewer, Jack Driscoll, Austin Jackson

Backups: Kendall Lamm, Patrick Paul, Robert Jones, Liam Eichenberg

This is another position group that should be written in pencil, not pen.

It wouldn’t be a surprise if the opening-day 53 has two IOLs not currently under contract. But if not, we expect Jones to beat out Lester Cotton. Jones was the better player in 2024.

KEEP READING: Dolphins’ 53-Man Projection on Defense

And yes, Eichenberg will be on the team — again. The Dolphins need a backup center and no one else currently under contract is as good.

If Paul is a quick study, don’t dismiss the possibility that he’s Miami’s No. 3 OT.