Hafley Seeks Campbell's Grit as Young Dolphins Face Detroit
First-year coach Jeff Hafley cites the Lions' physicality as a model for Miami, while Detroit prepares to play without All-Pro linebacker Jack Campbell.
By Tunde Bailey ·
Miami Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley intends to build his young roster on the same physical foundation that Dan Campbell established in Detroit. The two teams meet Sunday at 1 p.m. Eastern Time in Miami Gardens, with the Lions favored by seven points.
Hafley acknowledged the influence of Campbell, who famously declared in 2021 that his team would "bite a kneecap off" its opponents. While Hafley said he would not use that exact phrase, he stated that the mindset is identical to his own approach. He described the Dolphins' style as active and hungry, traits that have drawn praise from opponents despite Miami's 1-6 record.
The Dolphins possess the youngest roster in the National Football League. Eight rookies have combined for 45 total starts this season. Rookie linebacker Jacob Rodriguez said the team wants to be known for winning, not just effort. He noted that playing hard is part of the recipe, but the primary goal remains having a plan to actively win games.
Detroit enters the game with a 5-2 record and is seeking its fourth consecutive victory. The Lions have won three straight games, a streak they have not achieved since their 4-1 start in the previous season. A major question mark remains for the Lions' defense, which lost All-Pro linebacker Jack Campbell to a neck injury.
Campbell was carted off the field during a 19-15 win over the Vikings last week. In a statement released Wednesday, he said he has full movement in his lower body and is making progress in his upper body. Head coach Dan Campbell said the team must acknowledge the injury while ensuring they are locked in for the upcoming contest.
The offensive line for Detroit faces additional absences. Edge rusher DJ Wonnum and cornerback DJ Reed have not practiced this week due to a concussion and a hip injury, respectively. Center Cade Mays is also in question after missing practice with an ankle issue.
The Dolphins' defense ranks 16th in the league in both pass and rush defense. Miami's pass rush is tied for 30th in sacks. They will face quarterback Jared Goff, who has thrown a touchdown pass in 30 straight games. That streak is the longest in the league since Patrick Mahomes recorded a 31-game run from 2019 to 2021.
Rookie guard Kadyn Proctor returned to practice this week after suffering a concussion against the Patriots. His return may aid the Dolphins' run game, which produced only 74 yards in their last loss to the New England Patriots. Proctor is one of three rookie offensive linemen in the league who have not allowed a sack this season.
