Dolphins’ McDaniel addresses a slew of injuries. And veteran safety returns
Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel said right tackle Austin Jackson should be back for the start of the regular season and made clear that cornerback Cam Smith must be on the field to compete.
McDaniel responded to a question about Smith’s latest injury (to his leg), by saying: “We are all awaiting his ability to stay on the field. You have to stay on the field to continue to develop.” McDaniel said Smith has played well when healthy.
He said Smith should be back in days, not weeks. Smith’s first two seasons with the Dolphins have been beset by injuries and erratic play.
As for Jackson, he was stepped on during Friday’s practice but should be back for the Sept. 7 opener at the Colts. McDaniel said Jackson’s injury has nothing to do with past knee injuries.
Linebacker Jaelan Phillips sustained a “bruise” to one of his legs during Saturday’s practice but he is expected back within a few days, McDaniel said.
“It might cost him one day [or] two,’ McDaniel said, adding that he would not practice on Sunday.
Meanwhile, receiver Dee Eskridge is back at practice, a day after being carted off. McDaniel said Eskridge’s issue on Saturday was cramps.
Melifonwu back
Ifeatu Melifonwu, signed as a free agent during the offseason, is coming off the non-football injury list and is practicing on Sunday, McDaniel said.
Melifonwu had injury issues in Detroit but played well when healthy. He’s the front-runner to start at safety alongside Minkah Fitzpatrick.
Ifedi signs
The Dolphins signed veteran offensive guard/tackle Germain Ifedi, who has 90 starts in eight years, including seven for Cleveland last season.
Miami opted for Ifedi over four others who auditioned Saturday: Zach Bailey, Yodny Cajuste, Chris Hubbard, Germain Ifedi, David Sharpe.
This story was originally published August 3, 2025 at 8:36 AM.
