The Miami Dolphins, it seems, are set to soar high this season. Now fully healthy and back in the mix, they appear poised to change the fortunes of the pass rush! No doubt Andrew Chubb and Jaelan Phillips are eager to make their mark on the field. On defense, meanwhile, first-year Xavien Robinson gives them even more firepower. As the Dolphins prepare for the upcoming regular season, the combination of these talents is poised to instill confidence in both players and fans alike.
Jaelan Phillips, a first-rounder from a year ago, took a major shot as well when he tore his ACL in Week 4 of last season. The injury landed him on the season-ending injured reserve list. Despite that nagging doubt creeping in, it’s hard not to share Zierlein’s excitement over where Robinson can go this season playing on his fifth-year option. From the moment, Phillips urged the need to establish a clear and consistent focus and presence during the recovery efforts.
“I’m definitely trying to stay focused, that’s all you can do,” – Jaelan Phillips
Another contender, Andrew Chubb, who almost made a return last year at the close of the season, has been training just as hard. His 21-day return-to-action window opened in early December, giving him a window to ramp up his training and do so. Chubb reclaimed the team’s orange jersey during OTA practices on June 11, a sure sign that he’s thrown himself into the fire and shown the readiness. With three years left on his contract, Chubb sounds confident that he’ll be able to make a material impact this season.
“Going through OTAs and being on the side during OTAs is two totally different things. When you’re actually just putting in that blood, sweat and tears with the guys, that’s how you bond,” – Andrew Chubb
Chubb pointed out the contrast between watching from the stands and going through drills on the team’s practice field. Whether talking to players or coaches, his exuberance for finally being back on the field leaps off the page. He emphasized the importance of physically being there to cultivate that brotherhood and competitive edge that nails down the foundation for a successful season.
“Just being able to be out here, running around and physically getting up on guys… That just brings a different energy, a different tone,” – Andrew Chubb
The Dolphins’ defense just got a huge shot in the arm with Xavien Robinson coming on the field. He was taken with the 22nd pick in the 2024 draft. Despite not having practiced simultaneously with Phillips and Chubb until now, Robinson made a significant impact during his rookie season. He generated the third-highest pressure rate in the NFL from Week 8 through Week 18. This accomplishment is indicative of his ability and a glimpse into him becoming a dynamic, disruptive force.
The expectation for this trio—Chubb, Phillips, and Robinson—has added expectations to Miami’s pass-rush rotation. There is consensus that this year’s lineup might be the best in recent memory. In addition, all three players will be fully fit by the start of the regular season. They’ll be looking to improve their pass-rush moves and shocking technique while harassing the quarterbacks and new offensive line of the Dolphins in practice.
Phillips emphasized how crucial it is to get motivated and connect with fellow classmates as they head into a new season. He set the tone by admitting that, like practices, every game was a chance to play your way onto the team.
“Sitting down with Chop, seeing when he started to turn it on, I was just smiling from ear to ear because I know the potential we had,” – Andrew Chubb
In a post from Chubb’s Twitter account, both Chubb and Phillips voiced a shared resolve to do better this year with improved play. Their dedication to collaboration and their collective journey through recovery and training serves as an inspiration that speaks volumes about their strength and resolve.
With the regular season right around the corner, Miami’s coaching staff couldn’t be any more excited. Fans feel that same excitement, hoping that the fresh energy and team spirit will translate to wins this fall.
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