Dolphins 2025 Training Camp Preview: Tight Ends

As the Miami Dolphins gear up for their 2025 training camp, anticipation is building around several key position groups, none more intriguing than the tight ends. After a 2024 season that saw flashes of potential but perhaps not the consistent impact desired from the position, 2025 promises a renewed focus and intense competition among the group. This summer will be critical in shaping how Head Coach Mike McDaniel’s high-octane offense utilizes the versatile tight end role, whether it’s as a primary receiving threat, a crucial blocking asset, or a combination of both.

The spotlight will undoubtedly be on veteran Elijah Jenkins, who enters camp looking to solidify his standing. Jenkins, known for his reliable hands and willingness to engage as a blocker, is at a pivotal point in his career. While his experience and understanding of the Dolphins' complex offensive system are invaluable, coaches will be closely monitoring his consistency, particularly in converting red-zone opportunities and maintaining blocking integrity against elite defensive fronts. His ability to stay healthy and be a dependable every-down player could dictate the ceiling for the entire tight end room. Jenkins’ presence is crucial for setting a professional tone, but he’ll need to fend off challenges from a hungry group of younger players eager for more snaps.

Pushing Jenkins will be second-year standout Kyle Peterson, whose athletic upside has been a constant topic of conversation since he arrived in Miami. Peterson showcased impressive receiving ability in limited opportunities during his rookie campaign, demonstrating the speed and route-running prowess to create mismatches downfield. However, his development as an in-line blocker remains the primary hurdle to him earning a more prominent role. Training camp will be a true proving ground for Peterson, as the coaching staff will undoubtedly challenge him to improve his technique and physicality at the point of attack. If he can demonstrate significant strides in this area, his dynamic receiving skills could make him an indispensable weapon in McDaniel’s scheme, potentially elevating the Dolphins' passing game to new heights.

Beyond the presumed top two, the competition for depth and specialized roles will be fierce. Players like Marcus Thorne, a rugged, blocking-first tight end, will be vying for a spot, especially if the team emphasizes run-blocking prowess. Thorne's reliability in sealing the edge and opening lanes for the running backs could carve out a niche for him, particularly in short-yardage or goal-line packages. The Dolphins' offensive philosophy often prioritizes versatility, so any tight end who can contribute on special teams, in addition to their offensive duties, will hold a significant advantage. The battles throughout August will not only determine the pecking order but also reveal the strategic direction the Dolphins intend to take with their tight end usage in 2025, ultimately impacting the overall balance and potency of their attack.