Miami's Offensive Woes: A Preseason Reality Check
A Dismal Practice Performance Signals Trouble for Miami's Offense
As the regular season draws near, the Miami Dolphins anticipated a fruitful practice to sharpen their skills. However, Tuesday's session painted a starkly different picture, with the offense floundering dramatically. This subpar showing has raised significant questions about the unit's preparedness and effectiveness.
Eagles Fans' Frustration Resurfaces Over Patullo's Coaching
The Dolphins' struggles have reignited long-standing frustrations among Philadelphia Eagles fans regarding Kevin Patullo, their former passing game coordinator. Patullo's coaching in Miami is already facing intense scrutiny, even before the season officially kicks off.
Offensive Struggles Plague Dolphins' 11-on-11 Drills
During Tuesday's 11-on-11 drills, Miami's offense struggled to find any rhythm or success. Quarterback Malik Willis threw multiple interceptions, picked off by Willie Gay Jr. and Jackson Woodard, while Quinn Ewers also contributed to the defense's turnover count. Max Llewellyn consistently put pressure on the quarterbacks, suggesting that several plays would have resulted in sacks in a live game scenario.
No Improvement After Mid-Practice Huddle Raises Concerns
In an attempt to regroup, Willis initiated a mid-practice huddle, but the offensive unit showed no signs of improvement. This persistent struggle adds considerable pressure on the Dolphins, who were ranked 25th in the 2025 PFN NFL Offense Impact. The online reaction, particularly from Eagles fans, has been swift and critical, with many expressing relief at Patullo's departure.
Analysts Predict a 'Tank Job' for the Dolphins
NFL analyst Brian Drake was quick to criticize Miami's situation, declaring on X that the team's performance signals a "tank job" for the ages. This sentiment underscores the growing concern surrounding the team's trajectory.
Willis's Significant Contract and the Challenge of a New System
A major focus remains on Malik Willis, who was given a three-year, $67.5 million contract, with $45 million fully guaranteed. With the Dolphins undergoing a partial roster overhaul, Willis faces the challenge of developing within a new offensive system.
Personnel and Coaching Decisions Under Fire
Philly Nation echoed the concerns about the combination of personnel and coaching, sarcastically remarking on the Dolphins' decision to pair Willis with Patullo and receivers Jalen Tolbert and Malik Washington. They predicted that the "tank job" would be comically bad.
Calls for Offensive Improvement Before Preseason Finale
Another analyst, Nico, suggested a drastic measure, questioning whether Miami's starting offense should be allowed to leave the field during Friday's preseason finale against the Atlanta Falcons until they score a touchdown. The Falcons' plan to play their starters will provide a challenging test for Miami's struggling offense.
Patullo's Past Performance Fuels Current Criticism
The criticism directed at Patullo from Eagles fans is deeply rooted in his previous tenure in Philadelphia. One analyst questioned how Patullo could be expected to succeed with Miami's roster when he struggled with a more talented group in Philadelphia, which included Saquon, AJ, Smitty, Goedert, and Jalen. Another fan responded with pure sarcasm, noting the predictability of a "disaster" under Patullo's coordination.
Sarcastic Remarks on Patullo's Current Role
Further sarcasm was aimed at Patullo's current responsibilities, with one person writing that the passing game coordinator should surely be able to guide Malik and the offense back on track before the season.
Defense Shows Promise Amidst Offensive Woes
Despite the offensive struggles, Miami's defense offered some positive takeaways from the practice. Woodard and Keith Cooper Jr. showed strong performances, while Gay and Cam Riley each secured interceptions. However, injuries have also emerged as a concern, with Trey Moore facing surgery and Kenneth Grant ruled out for the game against Atlanta.
One Last Chance to Address Offensive Issues
If the team maintains its current effort, they are poised to climb the PFN NFL Defense Impact chart, especially considering their 27th ranking last season. The Dolphins have one final preseason game to iron out their offensive issues before the regular season commences.
