The Miami Dolphins will complete their preseason schedule against the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday.
The Dolphins are expected to rest most of their starting players and get an extended look at the depth chart. In addition to keeping the first-team healthy, this game gives the coaching staff a final chance to make roster decisions. All NFL teams will need to reduce their roster size this weekend.
With Jay Cutler on the sidelines, this game will give Brandon Doughty a chance to show what he can do. Injuries are a concern at the quarterback spot and Miami could end up needing a third-string QB this season. Doughty was taken in the seventh round of the 2016 draft and has yet to take a regular season snap.
There are a number of players on the defensive side of the field for Miami who will look to have a big night. Charles Harris should be busy, with the starting group watching from the sidelines. Harris was Miami's first-round pick in this year's draft and should see around 20 snaps per game as the season gets underway. A good showing here could help Harris see more game action sooner.
Alterraun Verner will likely have a good opportunity to show his talent off in this game. Verner is competing for time at cornerback with Byron Maxwell. One of those two will be the starter opposite Xavien Howard when the regular season gets underway. Maxwell had a poor showing last week and it is not yet known if he play much in this game.
Newly signed Rey Maualuga is not expected to play in this game, after not practicing much this week. Maualuga will need to get into shape, before Miami is able to utilize the veteran. Once he is ready to play, Maualuga should start at middle linebacker for the Dolphins. There is a chance the 30-year old could be ready for the first week of the season.
Thursday's game will begin at 8:00 p.m.
