Dolphins coach Hafley ditches 7-on-7 drills for full-team practice

New Miami Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley has introduced a distinct shift in practice protocol by eliminating 7-on-7 drills in favour of full-team, 11-on-11 scenarios. Speaking to reporters before a joint practice with the New York Giants at the Dolphins’ complex in Miami Gardens, Hafley outlined a strategy focused on testing blocking, protection, and route-running under conditions that mirror actual game stress.

Hafley stated that the objective is to play "real football" to evaluate whether the team can effectively handle pressure and execute timing. He noted that the approach allows the coaching staff to assess if the quarterback can release the ball on time and if receivers are running the correct routes, making the session a comprehensive team effort rather than a segmented skill drill.

The change has been well-received by the offensive line, who view the full-contact work as a more accurate translation of Sunday performance. Centre Aaron Brewer, a second-team All-Pro in his breakout season last year, endorsed the move, arguing that there are no days in a game where players are running 7-on-7. He expressed that working together in full-team scenarios is the most effective way to prepare for the rigours of the regular season.

Defensive tackle Zach Sieler, the longest-tenured Dolphins player and a leader in a locker room with many new arrivals, echoed Brewer’s sentiments. Sieler emphasised that the game is played 11-on-11, and therefore practice should reflect that reality. He highlighted the importance of placing game-like stress on the squad to push players to their limits on every single play.

The Dolphins are undergoing a significant rebuild after finishing the previous season with a 7-10 record. The restructure includes the hiring of Hafley and new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan, alongside the trading of key players. Despite these changes, the team faces low external expectations, with oddsmakers projecting a win total of just 4.5 for the upcoming campaign.

Hafley has chosen to look past these low odds, preferring internal motivation over relying on perceived slights from the broader league. He argued that using low expectations as fuel is a temporary measure that wears off, whereas a desire for greatness among players and coaches provides a more sustainable drive. This philosophy was evident during the joint practice, where the Dolphins faced a talented Giants front in a session that included several whistled sacks and intense physicality.