Ryan Stonehouse, the Miami Dolphins' new punter, aims to enhance his hang time, a key factor in his release from the Tennessee Titans. Despite impressive yardage records during his tenure, the Titans prioritized better coverage and hang time, leading to his departure. Stonehouse is determined to rectify this, consistently hitting 5.0 seconds in practice and eager to reunite with Dolphins special teams coordinator Craig Aukerman, who previously coached him in Tennessee. Competition remains as Jake Bailey is also on the roster, raising questions about who will secure the punting job.

Miami Dolphins' new special teams coordinator Craig Aukerman has made a significant personnel move by bringing in punter Ryan Stonehouse, previously of the Tennessee Titans. Stonehouse, known for his powerful leg, led the NFL with an impressive 53.1-yard punting average in 2022 and 2023. Despite suffering a torn ACL and MCL last season, he managed to punt for 50.6 yards this year, although his net average was lower, indicating room for improvement.

The Dolphins may part ways with Jake Bailey, their current punter, to accommodate Stonehouse. This change could impact Miami's special teams dynamics significantly, especially as Aukerman looks to enhance the kicking unit.

The Miami Dolphins have appointed Craig Aukerman as their new special teams coordinator, replacing Danny Crossman, who was let go following a disappointing season without playoff qualification. Aukerman, previously the special teams coordinator for the Tennessee Titans from 2018 to 2023, brings a wealth of experience, having also served in similar roles at San Diego Chargers and with various teams across the NFL.

Despite retaining Crossman through challenging seasons, including rankings of 31st in 2023 and 27th in 2022 for special teams, head coach Mike McDaniel expressed the need for change to enhance team performance. Aukerman will now work towards improving Miami's special teams unit, which has struggled in recent years.

The Miami Dolphins are facing a challenging injury situation as quarterback Tua Tagovailoa's hip issue remains a focal point. On Wednesday, three starters, tackle Terron Armstead, safety Jordan Poyer, and linebacker Anthony Walker Jr., were unable to practice due to various injuries. Armstead had previously exited the Week 17 game against the Cleveland Browns, while Walker missed that game entirely. Poyer, despite his knee and finger issues, managed to start.

Additionally, Tagovailoa, along with wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, and safety Jevon Holland, were listed as limited participants in practice. The Dolphins also noted punter Jake Bailey's back injury, while linebacker Duke Riley was a full participant despite a foot issue.

On the other side, the New York Jets' injury report reflected a walk-through practice, leading to an estimation of player statuses. Five players were marked as Did Not Practice (DNP), including cornerback Sauce Gardner, defensive lineman Quinnen Williams, and guard Alijah Vera-Tucker. Tight end Tyler Conklin and tackle Morgan Moses also fell under the DNP category, while guard John Simpson was limited due to a groin injury.