The Miami Dolphins have begun their season with a 6-3 record through their first nine games, but their three losses have come against the three best teams they’ve faced so far this year.
This Week 10 bye comes at a perfect time for Miami to rest and recover after a defeat at the hands of the Kansas City Chiefs in Frankfurt, Germany.
With this also being roughly the halfway point in the season, it’s a great time to reflect on some of the performances that the team had had this year.
Today, we’ll take a look at Miami’s rookie class through nine games.
RB De'Von Achane: A
Achane has been Miami’s most productive rookie, despite playing in just four games this season.
However, his play has made it apparent that he has the skill to play in this league.
His 12.1 yards per attempt would lead the league by quite a bit if his number of carries qualified for the league leaders, and his seven total touchdowns would be near the top as well.
Once he returns from injured reserve, he could be the key to taking to the offense to the next level.
DL Brandon Pili: D
Pili is one of three undrafted free agents to make the original 53-man roster out of camp, and while he was just recently moved to the practice squad, he’s had some opportunities on both special teams and defense.
Hopefully, with more time and development, Pili can grow into a real contributor on Miami’s defensive line.
TE Julian Hill: D+
Of all the Dolphins rookies, Hill has gotten the most play so far this season. He’s been on the field for 190 total snaps between offense and special teams through seven games.
He hasn’t made much of an impact in the passing game (one reception for four yards), but he’s done some decent things as a blocker.
As he gets used to the NFL game, he should develop into a more well-rounded tight end.
CB Cam Smith: INC
Smith, Miami’s top pick in this year’s draft, has had a prominent role on special teams, but he’s played just four snaps on defense.
The former Gamecock’s usage has been rather interesting, especially considering all of the injuries the Dolphins have had at the position.
Hopefully, Vic Fangio and company are just making sure he knows every detail before he gets real action.
RB Chris Brooks: INC
Brooks is currently on injured reserve, and there’s a strong chance he’ll miss the rest of the year with the number of players Miami has had to return already.
The undrafted rookie had seen action in six games before suffering an ankle injury against the Carolina Panthers. While most of his snaps were on special teams, he did get some opportunities on offense, rushing for 94 yards on an impressive 6.3 yards per attempt.
If he’s able to return this year, it’ll likely be as a depth player at the position, but he’s shown some potential that has some intrigued about his ability going forward.
