The Miami Dolphins have issued a favorable health report for several key players as they prepare for their inaugural match of the 2026 season against the Las Vegas Raiders. While initial forecasts placed the Dolphins in an underdog position, this positive news regarding player availability could be a crucial factor in their early performance. The team's roster faces challenges stemming from significant financial obligations to athletes no longer with the franchise, potentially straining their depth throughout the season. Nevertheless, heading into Week 1 with a relatively healthy squad is an encouraging development.
In a recent announcement, the Miami Dolphins confirmed that only four players were on the injury list, and all are expected to be available for Sunday's game. Ronnie Harrison, Will Kacmarek, Seydou Traore, and Dante Trader Jr., who had all received medical attention during the week, were full participants in Friday's practice. This is particularly good news for Kacmarek and Harrison, who had been limited in Thursday's session, signaling a significant step towards full fitness.
Head coach Jeff Hafley attributed the team's strong health during a demanding training camp to the players' dedication and the coaching staff's efforts. He remarked on Friday, "I think the coaches have done a tremendous job, but more importantly, give the players credit because it was a hard camp. It was a long camp. It was a physical camp, but the way they took care of themselves and their bodies and just spent all the extra time in recovery pre and post practice." Hafley also acknowledged the role of good fortune, stating, "And then at the same time, there's always going to be a little bit of luck involved, right? I mean, I'm not going to sit here and tell you we have the answers. It's just guys worked really hard. We have good people with them and knock on wood, it stays that way. But you never know, that's just the truth of the matter."
Despite the positive injury updates, the Dolphins are currently considered 3-point underdogs against the Las Vegas Raiders. This remains the case even with the Raiders confirming that star tight end Brock Bowers will be sidelined for the game. NFL.com's Brooke Cersosisimo predicted a 22-13 victory for Las Vegas, highlighting concerns about Miami's offensive lineup. Cersosisimo noted, "There are question marks littered throughout Miami's 2026 roster, specifically on the offensive side of the ball." She pointed to running back De'Von Achane's expected heavy workload and quarterback Malik Willis's inexperience as a full-time starter, coupled with a highly inexperienced wide receiver corps. While potential exists with players like Caleb Douglas and Chris Bell, Cersosisimo believes success won't be immediate and expects the Raiders' defense, led by Maxx Crosby, to challenge Willis significantly.
The Raiders, in contrast, appear to have fewer uncertainties and a more talented overall roster. Their offense is perceived to be stronger than the unit that averaged a league-low 14.2 points per game in 2025 with Geno Smith. With Kirk Cousins now at the helm, his steady quarterbacking is anticipated to be a welcome change for Raiders fans. The Dolphins' ability to overcome their underdog status and perform effectively will largely depend on how their newly healthy squad integrates and executes against a seemingly more stable Raiders team.
