Miami Dolphins coach Jeff Hafley said Will Kacmarek and Ronnie Harrison Jr. were expected to be available for Sunday’s game, pending the team’s final practice. Hafley also said he expected the entire roster to be available as of his Sept. 11 media availability.
“As of this moment, I expect everybody to be available,” Hafley said.
Hafley credits preparation for roster health
Hafley credited Kyle Johnston, Todd Hunt, their staffs, the coaching staff and the players for the team’s health after a long, physical training camp. He said the players put additional time into recovery before and after practices, while acknowledging that luck also plays a role.
Hafley said Chop Robinson had earned his opportunity through his preparation and hard work. “When you put in hard work and it meets an opportunity, he’ll be ready,” Hafley said.
Dolphins emphasize tackling and communication
Miami has spent extensive practice time on tackling and contact ahead of the game. Hafley said the team also used crowd noise to simulate game conditions and force players to communicate, adjust protections and operate in difficult situations.
Hafley described Nakobe Dean and Quay Walker as premier linebackers and said Walker had been his green-dot player for two years. He also praised edge players Robert Beal Jr. and Malik Herring, saying they were selected as the best available options and had shown effort and physicality.
McCord, running backs have flexible roles
Hafley said Kyle McCord participated in additional developmental work, including a 7-on-7 period after practice. Despite McCord’s limited time with the team, Hafley said the Dolphins were confident he could run the offense, with his progress expected to improve as he gains more time on task.
Hafley said Jaylen Wright and Ollie Gordon II would both be needed at backup running back. Their usage could depend on the play, down and distance, whether the call is a run or pass, and the matchup.
Practice-squad players also could be elevated when the Dolphins believe they are ready to help the team win. “If at any moment we feel one of those guys is ready, we’re going to elevate them,” Hafley said.
Hafley discusses Sept. 11 anniversary
Hafley addressed the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks and expressed sympathy for families who lost loved ones, first responders and other heroes. He also recalled that his father and brother were in New York City on the day of the attacks and mentioned Welles Crowther, whose mother is Alison.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Hafley said his decision after winning the coin toss would depend on how the Dolphins believed they could win, including the potential impact of the wind. He said he planned to handle the team’s designated red-flag throwing responsibilities unless a staff member particularly wanted the role.
Hafley said he goes through about 20 pieces of gum on a game day and about 15 at practice. Asked what he was most looking forward to, he answered, “Watching our guys play.”
Source: Original report