The Miami Dolphins may be facing questions about their star power heading into the 2026 NFL season, but the team’s depth chart has caught the attention of national analysts. On July 20, 2026, ESPN’s Bill Barnwell released his annual “All-Backup Team” feature, and two members of the Dolphins roster earned recognition for their potential impact as rotational players.
Offensive lineman Jamaree Salyer and veteran kicker Zane Gonzalez were both selected by Barnwell as players who could make significant contributions for Miami even without starting roles. The recognition comes at a time when the franchise is undergoing significant roster changes under new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan.
Rebuilding Depth in South Florida
The Dolphins have experienced what many observers describe as a major overhaul during the offseason, with Sullivan making numerous moves to reshape the team’s depth chart. While this transition has led some league personalities to express skepticism about the team’s prospects for the upcoming campaign, the selection of two Dolphins players for the All-Backup Team suggests that Miami has quietly assembled quality depth in key positions.
Several Dolphins players have received positive attention from analysts in recent weeks, including:
- Running back De’Von Achane, who continues to be viewed as a dynamic playmaker
- Center Aaron Brewer, who has earned praise for his consistency
- Linebacker Jordyn Brooks, recognized for his defensive contributions
However, it was the under-the-radar selections of Salyer and Gonzalez that highlighted the team’s strategic approach to building roster depth beyond just the marquee names.
What ESPN’s Analysis Reveals
Bill Barnwell provided detailed reasoning for his selections, emphasizing the unique value that both players bring to the Miami organization. His analysis pointed to specific factors that make these backup players particularly valuable in today’s NFL landscape.
“Let’s get the kicker off the board! The Dolphins are one of the few teams with two veteran kickers on their roster, so Gonzalez is an easy pick for us after hitting 86.4% of his attempts last season in Atlanta. Salyer is a swing tackle who did a solid job at left tackle as a rookie in 2022 with the Chargers; having a sixth or seventh lineman with real experience on the blind side is a relative luxury.”
The ESPN analyst’s comments underscore why roster construction extends far beyond simply acquiring star players. In a league where injuries and performance issues can derail even the most promising seasons, having reliable backups can make the difference between playoff contention and disappointment.
Salyer’s Potential Impact on the Offensive Line
Jamaree Salyer’s inclusion on the list carries particular significance given the current state of Miami’s offensive line. The versatile lineman has proven experience playing on the blind side, which protects the quarterback from pass rushers coming from the most dangerous angle.
The Dolphins’ offensive line situation presents several scenarios where Salyer could be called upon to contribute significant playing time during the 2026 season:
- Right tackle Austin Jackson has an extensive injury history that could result in missed games
- Right guard Jonah Savaiinaea struggled considerably during the 2025 season, earning the lowest grade among guards from Pro Football Focus
- Any injury along the offensive front would require immediate contributions from backup players
Having a swing tackle with starting experience provides the Dolphins with insurance against the inevitable roster challenges that emerge during a grueling NFL season. Salyer’s ability to step in and perform at a competent level could prove invaluable if Miami hopes to remain competitive throughout the year.
Gonzalez Brings Veteran Reliability
While kickers often fly under the radar in roster discussions, the position can dramatically impact game outcomes. Zane Gonzalez’s 86.4 percent success rate on field goal attempts during his time with the Atlanta Falcons demonstrates the reliability that made him an attractive addition to the Dolphins’ roster.
Miami’s decision to carry two veteran kickers on the roster reflects an organizational commitment to competition and depth at every position. Should any issues arise with the starting kicker, Gonzalez provides a proven option who has already demonstrated his ability to perform at the NFL level.
As the Dolphins prepare for the 2026 campaign, the recognition of Salyer and Gonzalez serves as a reminder that championship-caliber rosters require more than just headline-grabbing acquisitions. Building sustainable success in the NFL demands attention to detail throughout the entire depth chart, and Miami’s front office appears to understand that principle as they navigate this transitional period for the franchise.
