As the Miami Dolphins prepare for the 2026 NFL season, passionate fans are already identifying potential breakout players who could emerge from training camp to make significant contributions. On July 26, 2026, the Dolphins community shared their Miami Dolphins sleeper picks, highlighting several intriguing candidates ranging from veteran quarterbacks to undrafted free agents hungry to prove themselves.
Running Back Competition Heats Up in South Florida
The running back position has become one of the most compelling storylines heading into the 2026 season. With the new coaching staff reportedly committed to implementing a run-first offensive philosophy, the Dolphins need more than just star running back De’Von Achane to carry the load. Fans are closely watching several candidates who could emerge as Miami Dolphins sleeper picks in the backfield.
Former Michigan standout Donovan Edwards, who joined the team as an undrafted free agent in 2025, has caught the attention of many observers. If veteran backs Jeff Wright and Ollie Gordon fail to elevate their performance during camp, Edwards could seize the opportunity to claim a roster spot and meaningful playing time.
“They were really high on the undrafted back Levon Moss. They looked at him as Ollie Gordon’s replacement if he did not get the job done this offseason. A back who always seemed to go forward for a few yards.”
The importance of running back depth cannot be overstated for a team planning to establish the ground game as its offensive identity. Miami’s front office will likely monitor roster cuts across the league, potentially adding talent from other teams’ practice squads if current options underperform.
Malik Willis: The Ultimate Sleeper Quarterback?
Perhaps no player generates more debate among fans than quarterback Malik Willis. While not an unknown name in NFL circles, many believe Willis remains drastically underrated heading into the 2026 campaign. His dual-threat ability could transform Miami’s offense in ways that previous signal-callers could not accomplish.
Supporters point to Willis’s running ability as a game-changing element that could extend drives and keep defenses honest. Unlike his predecessors, Willis possesses the athleticism to convert short-yardage situations with his legs, potentially adding crucial first downs that sustain possessions and keep the defense fresh.
- Willis can extend plays with his mobility when the pocket collapses
- His running ability complements the team’s run-first offensive philosophy
- Time of possession could improve dramatically with a mobile quarterback
- The combination of Willis, Gordon, and Achane creates multiple rushing threats
Defensive Prospects Drawing Attention
On the defensive side of the ball, several Miami Dolphins sleeper picks have emerged as fan favorites. Fourth-round linebacker Kyle Louis has impressed observers with his football intelligence, and some predict he could transition to safety and earn a starting role by late October based on his high football IQ and versatility.
Cornerback Storm Duck represents another intriguing option at a position where Miami clearly needs reinforcements. The colorfully-named defensive back could provide crucial depth in a secondary searching for answers heading into the regular season.
Major Burns, who impressed during his time in the UFL after a solid career at LSU, has drawn attention from fans hoping his spring league success translates to the NFL level. While the UFL competition differs significantly from NFL caliber, Burns demonstrated the instincts and playmaking ability that could earn him a roster spot.
Offensive Weapons to Watch
Third-round tight end Will Kacmarek represents a Miami Dolphins sleeper pick who could contribute immediately in the passing game. Tight end remains a valuable position in modern NFL offenses, and Kacmarek’s arrival gives the team another weapon to develop within their new system.
At wide receiver, second-year undrafted free agent Theo Wease has generated excitement among fans hoping for a breakout campaign. With the receiver room appearing thin heading into the season, Wease has a legitimate opportunity to carve out a significant role if he can capitalize on training camp opportunities.
What This Means for Dolphins Fans
For the passionate Latino community following the Dolphins throughout South Florida and beyond, these sleeper candidates represent hope for a team in transition. The 2026 roster features numerous question marks, but the emergence of unexpected contributors could accelerate the rebuild and provide entertaining football throughout the fall.
Fans attending training camp practices in the coming weeks should keep their eyes on these names, as the preseason battles will determine which sleepers earn their place on the final 53-man roster. The Dolphins may surprise critics who have already written off the 2026 season before it begins.