The Miami Dolphins' 2026 rookie class will be counted on much sooner than expected as the franchise looks to build a younger, more dynamic roster.
Miami Dolphins rookies reported for training camp Tuesday at the Baptist Health Training Complex, meaning the start of the 2026 campaign is getting closer.
As veterans prepare to join them a week from today, attention will quickly shift to which first-year players can carve out significant roles before Week 1 on Sept. 13.
Here are four Dolphins rookies who could contribute heavily during the 2026 season, the team's first under head coach Jeff Hafley.
OT Kadyn Proctor
The Dolphins invested heavily in their offensive line in April by selecting Proctor, and the former Alabama standout is expected to earn playing time immediately.
At 6-foot-7 and more than 350 pounds, Proctor possesses the size and strength teams covet in an offensive tackle. Barring injuries along Miami's offensive line during training camp, Proctor will be the starting left guard, lining up alongside left tackle Patrick Paul.
CB Chris Johnson
Cornerback is another position where opportunities could emerge throughout the season, putting Chris Johnson, a first-round pick, in position to compete for starting defensive snaps. Johnson brings speed, athleticism, and the physical traits needed to develop into a productive NFL corner.
Even if he begins the year in a reserve role, Johnson should have a chance to contribute on special teams while working his way into the defensive rotation. If he performs well during training camp and the preseason, his role could continue to grow as the season progresses.
LB Jacob Rodriguez
When you get compared to Zach Thomas before playing a meaningful NFL snap, you know expectations are high. Jacob Rodriguez, a second-round selection who played his college football at Texas Tech, where Thomas also played, is expected to be a highly productive rookie.
Known for his instincts, physicality and ability to consistently find the football, Rodriguez has the tools to compete for defensive snaps right away. His production in college showed his ability to impact games in multiple ways, whether defending against the run, covering in space, or making plays behind the line of scrimmage.
WR Caleb Douglas
Gone is Miami's dynamic duo of speed, featuring Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. With uncertainty surrounding rookie wide receiver Chris Bell and when he will return from a season-ending torn ACL in his left knee suffered during a November 2025 game, the door could be open for Caleb Douglas, a third-round pick, to make a name for himself.
It has been said repeatedly that Miami lacks experience and depth in the receiver room, so the coaching staff will keep a close eye on Douglas throughout training camp.
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