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Miami Dolphins DT Kenneth Grant aims to be 'dominant' after toe injury
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- Miami Dolphins DT Kenneth Grant aims to be 'dominant' after toe injury
MIAMI GARDENS ― It was only 16 snaps for Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Kenneth Grant in his season debut against the Cincinnati Bengals .
"Felt pretty good," Grant said a few days after Miami's Week 5 loss.
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Grant missed Miami's first four games with a toe injury . Miami's defense has actually held up pretty decently against the run early this season.
With Grant, a 2025 first-rounder, back in the fold, Miami should theoretically be better.
"Just get better, get better from last season," Grant said of his 2026 goal. "Be dominant, be dominating in the run and pass game, and get a lot of wins for this team."
Kenneth Grant to ramp up after return from toe injury
Grant was the 13th overall pick in the 2025 draft and his rookie season did not go as well as he wanted. Grant was taken one spot ahead of standout Colts tight end Tyler Warren.
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Some felt 13th was a bit of a reach by former general manager Chris Grier. But the Dolphins just need Grant to be these things: tough, physical and strong. And to not be a total bust.
Everyone involved is hoping Grant will fit in well with new coach Jeff Hafley's defensive scheme .
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Ollie Gordon II (0) celebrates during the first quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 11: Ja'marr Chase #1 of the Cincinnati Bengals catches a touchdown pass against Jason Marshall Jr. #4 of the Miami Dolphins during the third quarter at Hard Rock Stadium on October 11, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
(Carmen Mandato, Getty Images)
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 11: Malik Willis #2 of the Miami Dolphins passes against the Cincinnati Bengals during the second quarter at Hard Rock Stadium on October 11, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
(Carmen Mandato, Getty Images)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Ollie Gordon II (0) runs with the ball past Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Cashius Howell (55) at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle B.J. Hill (92) tackles Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Ollie Gordon II (0) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle B.J. Hill (92) and safety Jordan Battle (27) tackles Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) celebrates during the during the first quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) throws the ball during the first quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins cornerback JuJu Brents (8) and Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase (1) battle for the ball during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) celebrates during the during the first quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) looks to throw the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals halfback Chase Brown (30) runs with the ball against Miami Dolphins cornerback Chris Johnson (3) during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
(Sam Navarro, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals halfback Chase Brown (30) zis tackled by Miami Dolphins safety Dante Trader Jr. (11) during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) looks on before the play against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 11: Joe Burrow #9 of the Cincinnati Bengals reacts on the line against the Miami Dolphins during the first half at Hard Rock Stadium on October 11, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
(Carmen Mandato, Getty Images)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Dohnte Meyers (81) dives with the ball against the Miami Dolphins during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
(Sam Navarro, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 11: Malik Willis #2 of the Miami Dolphins hands off to Jaylen Wright #5 of the Miami Dolphins against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium on October 11, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
(Carmen Mandato, Getty Images)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) sets the play against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
(Sam Navarro, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins linebacker Jordyn Brooks (20) tackles Cincinnati Bengals tight end Erick All Jr. (83) during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) sets the play against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
(Sam Navarro, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins owner and CEO Stephen Ross before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
(Sam Navarro, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; The Miami Dolphins cheerleaders perform during the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
(Sam Navarro, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins (5) and Miami Dolphins cornerback JuJu Brents (8) battle for the ball during the second quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley looks on during the second quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals tight end Tanner Hudson (87) scores a touchdown in front of Miami Dolphins linebacker Willie Gay Jr. (40) during the second quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) runs with the ball during the second quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins wide receiver Chris Bell (18) celebrates during the third quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins cornerback Chris Johnson (3) runs with the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals during the third quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) runs with the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals during the third quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Ollie Gordon II (0) stretches for the end zone against the Cincinnati Bengals during the third quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals safety Jordan Battle (27) tackles Miami Dolphins running back Ollie Gordon II (0) during the third quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr. (44) tackles Miami Dolphins wide receiver Chris Bell (18) during the third quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Ollie Gordon II (0) celebrates during the third quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals safety Bryan Cook (6) tackles Miami Dolphins wide receiver Chris Bell (18) during the third quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins wide receiver Kevin Coleman Jr. (21) scores a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals during the fourth quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
(Sam Navarro, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins tight end Greg Dulcich (85) catches the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals during the third quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase (1) celebrates during the third quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 11: Ollie Gordon II #0 of the Miami Dolphins is tackled by Myles Murphy #99 of the Cincinnati Bengals in the fourth quarter at Hard Rock Stadium on October 11, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by JC Ruiz/Getty Images)
(JC Ruiz, Getty Images)
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 11: Chop Robinson #44 of the Miami Dolphins recovers a fumble in the second quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium on October 11, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by JC Ruiz/Getty Images)
(JC Ruiz, Getty Images)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) throws the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals during the third quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) fumbles the ball as the pocket collapses in the fourth quarter of the NFL Week 5 game between the Miami Dolphins and the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, on Sunday, Oct. 11, 2026. The Bengals improved to 3-2 on the season with a 31-24 win on the road.
(Sam Greene/The Enquirer, USA TODAY Network via Reuters Co)
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 11: Joe Burrow #9 of the Cincinnati Bengals throws under pressure from Chop Robinson #44 of the Miami Dolphins during the fourth quarter at Hard Rock Stadium on October 11, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
(Carmen Mandato, Getty Images)
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) hugs Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) after the game at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Ollie Gordon II (0) celebrates during the first quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Ollie Gordon II (0) celebrates during the first quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 11: Ja'marr Chase #1 of the Cincinnati Bengals catches a touchdown pass against Jason Marshall Jr. #4 of the Miami Dolphins during the third quarter at Hard Rock Stadium on October 11, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
(Carmen Mandato, Getty Images)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 11: Malik Willis #2 of the Miami Dolphins passes against the Cincinnati Bengals during the second quarter at Hard Rock Stadium on October 11, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
(Carmen Mandato, Getty Images)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Ollie Gordon II (0) runs with the ball past Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Cashius Howell (55) at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle B.J. Hill (92) tackles Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Ollie Gordon II (0) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle B.J. Hill (92) and safety Jordan Battle (27) tackles Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) celebrates during the during the first quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) throws the ball during the first quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins cornerback JuJu Brents (8) and Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase (1) battle for the ball during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) celebrates during the during the first quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) looks to throw the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals halfback Chase Brown (30) runs with the ball against Miami Dolphins cornerback Chris Johnson (3) during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
(Sam Navarro, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals halfback Chase Brown (30) zis tackled by Miami Dolphins safety Dante Trader Jr. (11) during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) looks on before the play against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 11: Joe Burrow #9 of the Cincinnati Bengals reacts on the line against the Miami Dolphins during the first half at Hard Rock Stadium on October 11, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
(Carmen Mandato, Getty Images)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Dohnte Meyers (81) dives with the ball against the Miami Dolphins during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
(Sam Navarro, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 11: Malik Willis #2 of the Miami Dolphins hands off to Jaylen Wright #5 of the Miami Dolphins against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium on October 11, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
(Carmen Mandato, Getty Images)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) sets the play against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
(Sam Navarro, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins linebacker Jordyn Brooks (20) tackles Cincinnati Bengals tight end Erick All Jr. (83) during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) sets the play against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
(Sam Navarro, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins owner and CEO Stephen Ross before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
(Sam Navarro, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; The Miami Dolphins cheerleaders perform during the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
(Sam Navarro, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins (5) and Miami Dolphins cornerback JuJu Brents (8) battle for the ball during the second quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley looks on during the second quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals tight end Tanner Hudson (87) scores a touchdown in front of Miami Dolphins linebacker Willie Gay Jr. (40) during the second quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) runs with the ball during the second quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins wide receiver Chris Bell (18) celebrates during the third quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins cornerback Chris Johnson (3) runs with the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals during the third quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) runs with the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals during the third quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Ollie Gordon II (0) stretches for the end zone against the Cincinnati Bengals during the third quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals safety Jordan Battle (27) tackles Miami Dolphins running back Ollie Gordon II (0) during the third quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr. (44) tackles Miami Dolphins wide receiver Chris Bell (18) during the third quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Ollie Gordon II (0) celebrates during the third quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals safety Bryan Cook (6) tackles Miami Dolphins wide receiver Chris Bell (18) during the third quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins wide receiver Kevin Coleman Jr. (21) scores a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals during the fourth quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
(Sam Navarro, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins tight end Greg Dulcich (85) catches the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals during the third quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase (1) celebrates during the third quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 11: Ollie Gordon II #0 of the Miami Dolphins is tackled by Myles Murphy #99 of the Cincinnati Bengals in the fourth quarter at Hard Rock Stadium on October 11, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by JC Ruiz/Getty Images)
(JC Ruiz, Getty Images)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 11: Chop Robinson #44 of the Miami Dolphins recovers a fumble in the second quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium on October 11, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by JC Ruiz/Getty Images)
(JC Ruiz, Getty Images)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) throws the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals during the third quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) fumbles the ball as the pocket collapses in the fourth quarter of the NFL Week 5 game between the Miami Dolphins and the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, on Sunday, Oct. 11, 2026. The Bengals improved to 3-2 on the season with a 31-24 win on the road.
(Sam Greene/The Enquirer, USA TODAY Network via Reuters Co)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 11: Joe Burrow #9 of the Cincinnati Bengals throws under pressure from Chop Robinson #44 of the Miami Dolphins during the fourth quarter at Hard Rock Stadium on October 11, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
(Carmen Mandato, Getty Images)
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Miami Dolphins host Cincinnati Bengals in NFL Week 5 action
Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) hugs Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) after the game at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
(Rich Storry, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Grant is noticeably slimmer this season. But his mission for this season is clear: to be such a bull in the trenches that he clears the path for linebackers Jacob Rodriguez and Jordyn Brooks to tackle everything.
"What Hafley asks us as a d-lineman in the run game is to grind blocks and be gritty type of guys, take on double teams," Grant said. "So our guys, 10 (Rodriguez) and 20 (Brooks), can make plays and fly around. Just be us, mix it up and rush the passer and affect the QB."
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Kenneth Grant was 13th overall pick in 2025 NFL Draft
Rodriguez seems to appreciate what Grant can bring.
"He's always got energy, working all the time in practice," Rodriguez said. "The whole time he was on IR, he was around the guys. He was a part of the team. He was in the meetings. He was getting his body right. He's a pro and he's doing everything he needs to do to be here and help this team. I'm a huge fan."
Dolphins coaches say Grant has good feet for his size. And they believe he can anchor inside.
"I thought it was solid," Hafley said of Grant's debut. "I think getting his feet wet, getting the rust off. I think he did some good things and we need to get him going a little bit this week with what we do on the field and then get him back practicing more and playing more because we're going to need him."
Oct 19, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Kenneth Grant (90) tackles Cleveland Browns running back Quinshon Judkins (10) during the first half at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Grant said he feels more explosive this season. And he feels he has a solid understanding of Miami's scheme after watching his teammates for four weeks.
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"Certain plays are, you know, designed for certain things, and need a specific technique for what we want to run," Grant said. "We do a lot of different things. So I want to be able to execute all those different things."
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Joe Schad is a journalist covering the Miami Dolphins and the NFL at The Palm Beach Post . You can reach him at jschad@pbpost.com and follow him on Threads and Instagram and X at @schadjoe. Sign up for Joe's free weekly Dolphins Pulse Newsletter . Help support our work by subscribing today
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Miami Dolphins DT Kenneth Grant aims to be 'dominant' after toe injury
