Training Camp Practice 1 Observations: Defense Takes Ball Away - Sports Illustrated

What the report says

Sports Illustrated’s Alain Poupart reported that the Miami Dolphins opened training camp Wednesday at the Baptist Health Training Complex with full attendance from players on the active roster and an immediate shift into 11-on-11 team work after early drills. The session lasted about 90 minutes and ended before rain arrived. Cornerbacks Darrell Baker Jr. and rookie wide receiver Chris Bell, who began camp on injury lists, observed from the sideline, while cornerback Storm Duck was not seen after starting camp on the Physically Unable to Perform list.

The main on-field development was the defense producing three turnovers. Linebacker Willie Gay Jr. made the standout play late in practice, intercepting Cam Miller near the sideline after cutting in front of Donovan Edwards and securing the ball after an initial one-handed grab. Rookie safety Michael Taaffe also intercepted Quinn Ewers, and new edge defender David Ojabo forced a fumble on a running play that the defense recovered.

At quarterback, Poupart wrote that Malik Willis had the steadiest day, completing 6 of 9 passes without a major highlight. Ewers struggled more, including the interception to Taaffe, a deep throw that gave cornerback Marco Wilson a chance at the ball, and another pass that nearly was picked off by Ethan Bonner. Miller went 4-for-6, while Mark Gronowski attempted one incomplete pass.

Other notes from the report included rookie Kevin Coleman Jr. and Seydou Traore tying for the team lead with three catches each, Austin Jackson working fully in team periods and showing well in pass protection, and Carlos Washington Jr. continuing to stand out among new running backs. The early takeaway: Miami’s defense emphasized creating turnovers from the first practice of camp.