Dolphins' Week 1 rookies flash as building blocks for the future
The Miami Dolphins leaned on their draft class in Week 1 against the Raiders, showing immediate building-block potential. 2nd-round linebacker Jacob Rodriguez wore the green-dot and led the defense with 14 tackles on every snap, while 1st-round corner Chris Johnson played all defensive snaps with 11 tackles and two pass breakups but was part of two Raiders touchdowns. Caleb Douglas stood out at receiver with 5 catches for 94 yards, Kadyn Proctor started and held up with just one false start on 100% of snaps, and several other rookies contributed in limited roles. DJ Campbell and Justin Joly were inactive. The game underscored a plan to rely on the draft to shape the roster, even as players refine consistency and coverage.
