Dolphins Training Camp: Willis Shows Confidence as Ewers Suffers Injury
Quarterback Malik Willis displayed improved decision-making during Monday’s practice, while incumbent backup Quinn Ewers missed time with a groin strain, adding uncertainty to the Miami Dolphins’ depth chart ahead of the regular season.
The Miami Dolphins concluded their 12th training camp practice on Monday, 17 August 2026, at the Baptist Health Training Complex. Under the direction of first-year head coach Jeff Hafley, the closed session provided reporters with insight into the team’s ongoing roster projections and positional battles. General Manager Jon-Eric Sullivan continues to oversee transactions as the club moves closer to finalising its 53-man roster.
Quarterback Malik Willis emerged as a focal point of the session, demonstrating increased command and confidence. Willis connected with rookie receiver Caleb Douglas on a significant pass over the middle and targeted tight end Greg Dulcich for a substantial gain down the seam. He also completed a strong out route to AJ Henning, who had previously caught a deep touchdown pass from backup Cam Miller on the final play of practice. While Willis recorded some incompletions, his overall performance suggested a more fearless approach to the pocket.
Conversely, the session presented challenges for Quinn Ewers, who missed time due to a groin strain. Ewers has faced scrutiny throughout the summer campaign and is seeking to solidify his standing as the primary backup quarterback. The injury introduces an element of unpredictability to the quarterback room, where Willis and Miller are vying for playing time alongside Ewers.
Defensive tackle Kenneth Grant was also absent from the practice, raising questions about his standing in the rotation. Grant is currently competing with Jordan Phillips and Zeek Biggers for defensive line snaps, with reports indicating that the later-drafted Phillips and Biggers have occasionally outperformed Grant during training camp drills.
Other notable movements included the activation of rookie receiver Chris Bell to the active roster. Despite being cleared for participation, Bell wore a red jersey and did not engage in 11-on-11 drills during the session. Defensive backs Lonnie Johnson, Miles Battle, Marco Wilson, and Michael Taaffe recorded pass breakups, with Battle nearly securing an interception on a pass intended for Jalen Tolbert.
