Four key storylines to watch as the Miami Dolphins close the preseason Friday against the Falcons.
MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — The Miami Dolphins wrap up the preseason Friday night against the Atlanta Falcons at Hard Rock Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. ET.
There are still plenty of questions surrounding Miami heading into the finale, but four storylines stand out, starting with the return of a very familiar face.
1. Tua Tagovailoa's Return
This is the obvious headline. Tagovailoa, who spent the first six seasons of his career in Miami, returns to Hard Rock Stadium in a Falcons uniform.
It will be his first game back in the building since being released earlier in the offseason, making his appearance one of the most anticipated moments of the night.
Tagovailoa is expected to start, with Cooper Rush and Jack Strand set to follow.
2. Will the Dolphins' Starters Play?
Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley has not made clear how much, if any, work the first-team offense and defense will get.
Many starters, notably quarterback Malik Willis and running back De’Von Achane, did not play in the Dolphins’ 26-3 loss to the New York Giants on Saturday. With the offense having scored just 10 points in two exhibition games, it may make sense to put them on the field for a bit.
If key starters sit, the game becomes an extended audition for backups and players fighting for spots on the final 53-man roster.
3. Will Chris Bell Make His Preseason Debut?
Rookie wide receiver Chris Bell, whom the Dolphins drafted in the third round of April's draft, is now out of the red non-contact jersey after undergoing surgery to repair a torn ACL last November.
Hafley, during his media availability Tuesday, hinted that Bell could make his debut Friday, which would be significant.
If Bell does play, even a limited number of snaps could provide an important first look at what he can bring to Miami's offense.
4. Bubble Players Making Their Final Case
For players fighting for roster spots, this is the final audition. Every snap matters, whether it comes on offense, defense or special teams.
A receiver making a contested catch, an offensive lineman holding up in pass protection or a defensive back making a big play can all influence the final decisions.
The Dolphins' coaching staff will be watching closely for players who can separate themselves from the competition.
Miami, according to league rules, must reduce their roster to a maximum of 53 players by 6 p.m. ET Sunday, Aug. 30.
