The Miami Dolphins began training camp this week with rookies reporting Tuesday, with the exception of second-round pick Jonah Savaiinaea, who has yet to sign his rookie contract. Miami’s 2025 draft class may not have to wait long to see the field and could be thrust into significant roles early in their careers out of sheer necessity.

A year ago, the Dolphins were among the NFL’s older teams. Heading into the 2025 season, however, there has been a clear shift toward youth following several veteran departures. Across the roster, notable holes and depth concerns could create opportunities for draft picks to step up as immediate contributors.

First-round pick Kenneth Grant is expected to perform at a level worthy of his No. 13 overall selection. Once Savaiinaea finalizes his deal, high expectations will follow him, as well. After their first two picks, the Dolphins entered the fifth round with a trio of selections, thanks to earlier trades that left them without third and fourth-round picks.

When searching for rookies who could surprise in 2025, the fifth round is the place to look. Miami addressed three critical positions of need in the round: defensive tackle, cornerback, and safety.

DT Jordan Phillips

In a draft focused on fortifying the trenches, Miami invested heavily in its defensive line. With their first fifth-round pick, the Dolphins selected defensive tackle Jordan Phillips, who joins Grant on an interior line in desperate need of help alongside veteran Zach Sieler.

Phillips, who turns 21 this season, has earned praise from college coaches for his work ethic and professionalism. He may emerge as the top surprise of Miami’s 2025 class. Capable of playing both nose tackle and multiple techniques across the line, Phillips brings excellent leverage against blockers thanks to a wrestling background. His impact could extend beyond individual statistics by creating opportunities for teammates and bolstering the Dolphins run defense.

CB Jason Marshall Jr.

Trading veteran Jalen Ramsey left Miami’s cornerback group as arguably the most uncertain unit on the roster. With their second fifth-round selection, the Dolphins drafted local product Jason Marshall Jr., a four-year starter at Florida with leadership qualities and SEC experience.

Marshall will compete for a starting boundary cornerback role in a room with little proven NFL experience. Having defended some of college football’s top receivers, his athleticism and versatility in both man and zone coverage could set him apart from other young corners still trying to establish themselves at the professional level.

S Dante Trader Jr.

Of Miami’s trio of fifth-round picks, safety Dante Trader Jr. may see the field most often in 2025, thanks to his ability to contribute on both defense and special teams. The versatile safety is comfortable playing deep or in the box, and is also a strong candidate to make an immediate impact on coverage units.

Trader, who has been praised for his leadership, intelligence, and work ethic, could earn significant snaps in a safety room that is thin behind Minkah Fitzpatrick, who was reacquired in a trade with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Several free-agent additions and second-year players will compete for depth chart spots during camp, but defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver’s system may frequently deploy three safeties, offering Trader a path to early playing time.

Trader may ultimately emerge as the most successful rookie among Miami’s six Day 3 selections.