With the conclusion of practices and preseason games, the Miami Dolphins are preparing to finalize their initial 53-man roster for the upcoming 2026 NFL season. The roster will be officially set by the cutdown deadline on Sunday at 4 p.m. ET, ahead of their season opener against the Las Vegas Raiders on September 13.
In the quarterback position, Malik Willis and Quinn Ewers are projected to make the roster, with no changes from previous projections. There is speculation about the potential addition of an external player to challenge Ewers, but that remains uncertain.
For running backs, De'Von Achane, Ollie Gordon II, and Jarquez Hunter are expected to be included, while Donovan Edwards, Carlos Washington Jr., Coleman Bennett, and Jaylen Wright are projected to be cut. Hunter's recent acquisition suggests he is likely to secure a spot, although the Dolphins could keep a fourth running back, which may necessitate adjustments elsewhere on the roster.
The wide receiver group is projected to consist of Jalen Tolbert, Chris Bell, Caleb Douglas, Kevin Coleman Jr., and Malik Washington, with A.J. Henning, Terrace Marshall Jr., Donaven McCulley, Theo Wease Jr., Ryan Miler, and Jalen Reagor likely to be released. The final wide receiver spot remains uncertain, as the Dolphins may opt for special teams contributions in their decision-making.
At tight end and fullback, Greg Dulcich, Will Kacmarek, D.J. Herman, and Ben Sims are expected to make the cut, while Jeremiah Franklin, Seydou Traore, and Ethan Conner are projected to be cut. Herman's performance has raised questions, and Sims' recent inactivity complicates his status on the roster.
