Defensive Foundation Set, Receiver Room Fraying as Camp Opens

Miami got the Brooks deal done — covered that Wednesday — and the defense looks stable heading into camp. Jordyn Brooks anchors the linebacker group, Minkah Fitzpatrick is locked in at safety, and Tyrel Dodson's name is circulating in trade conversations, which at minimum confirms the league sees value there. The defensive infrastructure is in reasonable shape.

The receiver room is a different story. Tyreek Hill said Thursday he has "no power" in his injured left leg — a notable quote from a player who managed just four games last season. Add Chris Bell on the non-football injury list, and the depth behind Jaylen Waddle thins out fast. The third-round pick brought in to help that group is also questionable heading into camp. Miami drafted for receiver depth this spring and is already watching that depth erode before a padded practice has been held.

De'Von Achane's questionable tag matters too, though for different reasons. He was the engine of the offense last season — over 1,300 rushing yards and nearly 500 receiving yards — and his availability shapes everything about how Tua Tagovailoa can operate. A healthy Achane buys the passing game some margin. Without him, the margin gets very thin very fast, especially with Hill's status genuinely uncertain.

Camp hasn't started and Miami is already managing a cluster of offensive question marks. The defense is built. The offense needs bodies.