Dolphins Training Camp Kicks Off: Top Moments from Day One

NFL

The NFL season is inching closer, and another offseason milestone is officially in the books: the start of training camp. Twenty-six of the league’s 32 teams reported to mandatory camp Tuesday, offering a first glimpse at what to expect this season. From holdouts and injuries to roster cuts and potential last-minute signings. While we saw a good portion of the Dolphins' roster participate in optional activities weeks ago, Miami was among the first teams to report today. So, what’s going on in South Florida? Let’s dive in.

The First Roster Moves

The Dolphins made their first roster decisions ahead of the 2025 season. Offensive lineman Liam Eichenberg and newly acquired tight end Darren Waller were placed on the Physically Unable to Perform list. Both are eligible to be activated at any time. Additionally, free-agent safety Ifeatu Melifonwu was placed on the non-football injury list. As for Waller, the team is expected to ease him into football-related activities as camp progresses — a smart move, considering he hasn’t played in over a year.

Miami also added to its offensive line depth by signing veteran Daniel Brunskill, formerly of the Titans. The six-year pro brings valuable versatility — he played left tackle, center, and right guard last season — and has put together strong campaigns, including top-25 guard rankings in both 2022 and 2023. Going from Robert Jones and Liam Eichenberg as your top guards to James Daniels, Jonah Savaiinaea, and Brunskill marks a clear upgrade. To make room for Brunskill, the Dolphins released quarterback Brett Gabbert.

First-Day Media Availability

With it being just the first official day of training camp, on-field action was limited as players began easing their way back into full-speed football. However, a few veterans took the podium to address the media: Tyreek Hill, Bradley Chubb, and Darren Waller all spoke about the season ahead. Hill, now entering his fourth year in Miami, had the most to say. His 2024 campaign ended in disappointing fashion, leaving the field during the third quarter of a Week 18 matchup against the Jets.

Reflecting on that moment, Hill said, "I need to be better as a leader, and I realized that... as a leader of this team, and also as a leader of this community, I just need to be better." As a fan, that’s exactly what you want to hear from your star wideout. Hill’s status with the team was a question mark throughout the offseason, with speculation swirling about a potential trade request. Yet, his recent actions and attitude suggest he’s committed to staying in Miami — for now.

When asked about the Dolphins’ lack of national expectations entering 2025, Hill responded: "That makes guys even more hungry... we have a real nice chance to be special this year. I think guys have matured a lot, I have matured a lot, [Coach McDaniel] has even matured a lot." The Dolphins have often been overlooked before the season kicks off, but internally, there’s a belief that a culture shift is underway. With several weeks remaining until Week One, there’s plenty of time for new developments — and it already feels like something is brewing in Miami.

Jason Petrucci

Jason Petrucci is a journalism student at St. John’s University who covers MLB news for Last Word on Sports and reports on St. John’s athletics. He also creates Mets content for Sleeper and brings a lifelong love for sports, especially the Miami Dolphins, into every story he tells.

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