Report: Dolphins players considering on-field workouts during OTAs
The NFLPA has seen a significant push this offseason to move players towards more virtual offseason programs — citing concerns regarding player safety after data from the 2020 season showed players across the league missed less time on the field in the fall. And while the Miami Dolphins have committed to “stand in solidarity” with the league’s other players regarding the right to not participate in voluntary on-field workouts, it appears as though the Dolphins themselves may be taking part in some of the typical on-field programs this summer.
A report from Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald confirms there’s some traction with Dolphins players to partake, provided the tempo and the volume are cut down to keep the wear and tear on their bodies at a minimum.
“A Dolphins player confirmed an NFL Network report that Dolphins players have discussed the matter and are receptive to participating in the on-field component of the offseason program in exchange for shorter work days and a walk-through tempo during May and June practices.
The NFL Network report by Tom Pelissero implied that an agreement has been reached with Dolphins coaches and players to execute that plan, though one Dolphins player said he hasn’t been told a final decision on the matter.” — Barry Jackson, Miami Herald
Such a maneuver by the Dolphins would not necessarily serve as an about-face for the team, as the Dolphins’ statement filed earlier this spring never explicitly said that the team would be avoiding offseason programs; only that they stood in solidarity with the NFLPA on the issue.
There are several weekends of on-field workouts coming up for the Dolphins over the next month and a half:
May 24-26
June 1-3
June 7-8
June 10
The Dolphins also have rookie minicamp this upcoming weekend — a chance to get the team’s young additions into the fray and acclimated with the team facilities ahead of the summer months when everyone must be ready to hit the ground running.
