Following the Miami Dolphins game against the Giants on Saturday, only one more game separates the preseason from the start of the NFL's regular season. That being said, there are jobs on the line in Week 2 that can't be cast aside.
For many of the fringe players, the hopes and dreams of making an NFL roster won't die until that third preseason game concludes, but that doesn't mean opportunity won't knock a week earlier. Camp has brought some great surprises for Miami, but not every player has impressed.
The Giants and Dolphins practiced together on Thursday, and that means many starters will sit the second week out, or at the very least see a limited number of snaps. Queue the door of opportunity to open.
Several Miami Dolphins players could give Jeff Hafley a reason to close the competition book early
TE Ben Sims
The best opportunity for securing a roster spot could be at hand for Ben Sims, who finds himself ahead of D.J. Herman on the depth chart. Both are listed as a hybrid FB/TE. Herman has looked good in camp so far, while Sims has been a bit more inconsistent at times.
On Saturday, both should get plenty of opportunity to make a case for the final 53. The Dolphins are only going to keep 3 to 4 tight ends, and at most, 4 running backs. Both Sims and Herman should have a chance to prove they are the Dolphins' best option for one spot that may be split between two positions.
Sims may have an edge, given his experience at this level. If he plays well Saturday, he will provide the insurance he needs to make the team, likely sending Herman to the practice squad.
CB Alex Austin
Alex Austin has been sharp all training camp. The corner is hoping to not only earn a spot on the 53, but also reps on the inside as a nickel corner. So far, he has the inside track to get one of those spots, but another solid outing on Saturday could flip the switch and turn the lights out on any competition that Hafley has been monitoring.
Interestingly enough, Austin is listed behind Chris Johnson as a nickel on the depth chart, but Johnson will start his NFL career on the boundary, giving Austin a clear line for the starting job as the nickelback. Especially with JuJu Brents still banged up. Again, a solid showing against the Giants, and there will be no doubt about his 53-man roster status.
LB Cameron Goode
Goode's time in Miami could come to an end sooner rather than later. Already fourth on the Dolphins' depth chart as an edge rushing linebacker, Goode faces an uphill climb to unseat any of the six players in front of him. After Mason Reiger was waived with an injury, a small crack appeared for Goode to walk through.
His game against the Giants has to be good, as there is no room for mistakes. If Goode doesn't make the final 53, he will be the last member of the Dolphins' 2022 draft class to leave. A 7th-round pick, he has done better than most, but this may be his last ride. Saturday should provide plenty of reps to make Hafley believe he can provide depth and value to the team.
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