For Mike McDaniel, the Dolphins’ preseason closer was a snapshot of progress and danger. Tua Tagovailoa threw a sharp touchdown pass in the first half against the Jaguars, revealing the rhythm Miami wants to see all season. But he also took two sacks in the 14-6 victory, which is a reminder of the narrow margin between confidence and worry about keeping the franchise quarterback from getting hit. McDaniel, as always, projected a picture of serenity on the sidelines. But optimism vs. caution hung in the balance once the game was over.

Afterward, McDaniel relayed that (K) Jason Sanders departed the game with some dings. Although not to the extent that he would be a threat for Week 1. “He does not seem worried about Week 1,” McDaniel said, being very careful with his words while still relying on assurances. It was significant enough to calm jitters in the immediate term, but tactful enough to assert that Miami will be prudent in distributing their quarterback’s reps heading into September, and that’s bad news for Tua Tagovailoa. The head coach also offered a succession of other injury reports throughout the roster.

The head coach also reported a series of injury news up and down the roster. Linebacker Jordyn Brooks was out with what McDaniel described as “something minor,” noting he would have played if it was a season game. Though, running back Jaylen Wright’s case was not as optimistic. As McDaniel said, “We’re evaluating a few things procedurally.” A harsh blow for a guy who has 19 rushing yards this preseason and did not dress out Saturday. McDaniel downplayed concerns about offensive line depth, saying he doesn’t foresee anything immediate or season-long for veteran Liam Eichenberg. While also noting that De’Von Achane’s calf has had no setbacks. An important reassurance given Miami’s need for explosive options in the backfield. Still, with multiple offensive linemen missing for significant camp time, the Dolphins may have to weigh roster mechanics carefully.

Injuries have quickly turned Miami’s roster bubble into a game of survival. Depth on the offensive line was already bare. But with Andrew Meyer sidelined by an elbow problem the Dolphins might have no other option but to reshape their Week 1 totals. Rather than cutting players such as Daniel Brunskill or Kion Smith, McDaniel might employ the new IR-to-return rule as a safety net. Essentially preserving two jobs and reforming the way Miami manages its 53-man roster.

The same domino effect is unfolding in the secondary. Where injuries have blurred the divide between youth development and veteran stability. Ethan Bonner’s hamstring setback took pressure off veteran Mike Hilton. Who would have been the odd man out following Jason Marshall Jr.’s stout performance at nickel. Now, Hilton’s limited guarantees are less important than his availability. While Marshall’s development can be smoothed into a longer runway. However, for Miami not every injury is merely a setback, it’s a roster choice waiting to be made.

Dolphins top Jaguars, but questions still lingers

The preseason finale provided the Dolphins with an abundance of evidence regarding where they stand as they embark on the regular season. The offense struggled on its initial two drives before Tagovailoa eventually found rookie Malik Washington for a 25-yard touchdown. The quarterback also hit Jaylen Waddle once and converted a fourth down to keep the drive alive, leaving Hard Rock Stadium with a modest 4 of 8 passing line for 49 yards and a score. The moment carried symbolic weight: a chance for Tua to end the exhibition slate on a high note. But the two sacks he absorbed also hinted at the fragile foundation beneath Miami’s passing game.

Backup quarterback Zach Wilson extended the cushion in the third quarter. He showed the rhythm and confidence with a fourth-down strike to Erik Ezukanma. And a handful of sharp throws to camp standout Dee Eskridge. Mike Boone capped the drive with a rushing touchdown to make it 14-6, and Miami’s defense did the rest. Rookie safety John Saunders Jr. sealed the win with a 51-yard interception return. It was the kind of gritty preseason ending that reflected McDaniel’s depth-building focus. Yet behind the smiles was an uneasy truth: health will determine how far this roster can go.

Injuries across multiple position groups have blurred Miami’s roster picture. Inside at cornerback, rookie Jason Marshall Jr. has stepped in, but Ethan Bonner’s hamstring injury complicates matters. And Ashtyn Davis’ timeline is a question mark, sending ripples through how the safety group is constructed. Each injury necessitates a decision. And each decision brings Miami closer to hard choices on cuts.

The team looked capable, even promising, in beating Jacksonville 14-6. But the price tag was a fresh stack of health concerns.