The Miami Dolphins are set to seek their fourth consecutive season-opening win against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Hard Rock Stadium, a matchup that marks the first opening day meeting between the two teams.
Both squads finished strong in 2023 with the Dolphins at 11-6 and the Jaguars at 9-8, aiming for playoff contention once again.
The health of seven-time Pro Bowl cornerback Jalen Ramsey, who has a hamstring injury, will be pivotal for Miami's defense, especially after his recent contract extension.
Quarterbacks Tua Tagovailoa and Trevor Lawrence are crucial to their teams' chances, despite not directly opposing each other.
Chop Robinson, a first-round pick, is anticipated to make his NFL debut and could be key in pressuring Lawrence.
Defensive standouts like Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker will challenge the Dolphins' offensive line as they aim to protect Tagovailoa. Furthermore, wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Brian Thomas Jr. could greatly influence the game, with Hill returning from injury and Thomas being a significant draft prospect linked to Miami.