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Davie, FL – The Miami Dolphins opened training camp on Thursday with a sharp looking first practice.
Making the postseason for the first time in eight years in 2016, the Dolphins collectively realize there are higher expectations for the team in 2017 – but a majority of the players were quick to downplay the fact that most outsiders feel the team should be better.
Except starting quarterback, Ryan Tannehill.
“Expectations are up, but that’s what you want,” Tannehill said. “You want to be putting that pressure on yourself. I think we have the right people in this building to do what we need to do and the mindset is right.”
The mindset was all business yesterday. There wasn’t much walking around and everything seemed to be purpose driven. That’s what you want from a team that has the defending Super Bowl champion residing in its division.
Head Coach Adam Gase liked the first practice effort.
“I just really feel like our guys came out there with a purpose, just knowing what to expect and they’re able to come out there knowing that ‘hey, first day we’re doing red zone and prepare over the summer and be ready to go,’ and they come out here and play fast, taking every rep as serious as possible and making the most everything that we’re doing,” Gase said when addressing the media.
“That’s something that we’re looking to continue to do throughout training camp. ”
The star of the day was undoubtedly undraftted cornerback Torry McTyler out of UNLV. He had two interceptions during the team scrimmage periods, both of which could have easily been returned for touchdowns, and drew lots of praise from the crowd.
McTyler knows he’s got a lot of work to do to make the team.
“I think the game is much faster..” he said. Knowing he’s got to continue to impress coaches, study and compete.
On offense, DeVante Parker had a nice grab in the end zone during team work but the true standout was Jakeem Grant, the second-year reeceiver from Texas Tech. He was fast, caught the ball and explosive in his play making ability.
Notables:
- Center, Mike Pouncey was at practice yesterday but didn’t participate in many drills.
- “It feels real good. It felt great running around out there today. We’ve got an awesome plan that I’m all aboard with and I can’t wait to get out there and get going.”
