Top 3 Dolphins training camp performers – Day 1

The first day of training camp is in the books, and the Miami Dolphins are officially ready to begin evaluating. The pads aren’t on yet, so hitting isn’t permitted. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t things to take away from day one.

So here are the top three performers from the first day of training camp. Keep in mind, this list will be fluid as the days go on. A top performer today may be on here the next day. By the same token, players who did poorly one day could easily have a great day and land here as well. Without further ado, here we go.

Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB

Though I’m sure this comes with some level of frustration for fans, Ryan Fitzpatrick clearly outplayed Josh Rosen on the first day of training camp. This continues the offseason trend, as Rosen has been a step behind Fitzpatrick ever since he arrived. Fitzpatrick threw bullets to players in the middle of the field, hitting Mike Gesicki and DeVante Parker for would-be big plays, sidestepping pass rushers, and being decisive with throws.

This directly contrasts with Rosen’s first day. The second-year QB struggled to find open receivers, threw passes away due to tight coverage, and threw an interception to DB Montre Hartage. Rosen did eventually throw a nice touchdown to TE Nick O’Leary, but he paled in comparison to the 15-year veteran.

Granted, the pads have yet to come on, and there’s always time for players to get better (or worse). But as of day one, Ryan Fitzpatrick is the superior quarterback. This can still change, so don’t panic yet.

Jakeem Grant, WR

Flash and style, that’s Jakeem Grant’s game. Once again, Grant goes on the field and his speed and quickness wows the crowd. The highlight of the day came when Grant went one-on-one with cornerback Jomal Wiltz, and Grant’s feet moved so quickly that Wiltz nearly fell to the ground trying to keep up with him. He was quick in his releases, consistent with his catches, and it looks like he hasn’t lost a step since his injury.

As camp is just starting, there’s still plenty to keep an eye on, but it’s encouraging to see that Grant is starting strong. In years past, Grant struggled to keep his hands on the football. Dropping passes was a routine occurrence. Perhaps that’s finally changing. If it is, then he could very easily take the next step towards becoming a dangerous weapon in Miami’s offense.

DeVante Parker, WR

Same song, different year. DeVante Parker once again flashes while the pads are off and hits are at a minimum. Does anyone dare get their hopes up? Is this finally the year that Parker puts it all together and becomes the player he was drafted to be? It’s unwise to simply assume yes, but there are some things that are different.

For one, Parker is fully healthy. When was the last time anyone heard that? One of the main reasons Parker hasn’t reached his potential is nagging injuries. It’s only day one, but he’s still healthy. Another thing is that Parker looks like he’s actually filled out some, added extra bulk to his frame similarly to Mike Gesicki and his fellow wide receiver Isaiah Ford, who stated he’d done the same.

In practice, Parker made catches left and right. He fought for passes, came down with it in the endzone, dove and hauled in tough throws that he’s dropped in the past. That’s all encouraging. However, the pads still haven’t come on. That phrase is going to set the tone for reports for a while; when pads are off, evaluations must have a grain of salt.

Only when hitting begins can they truly be weighed accordingly. For now, take comfort in knowing that the focus on fundamentals seems to be having an initial effect. But keep your guard up, there’s still a long way to go.