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Miami Dolphins Rookie Power Rankings: Rodriguez Holds No. 1 Spot
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- Miami Dolphins Rookie Power Rankings: Rodriguez Holds No. 1 Spot
Miami's bye did not reduce the importance of its rookie class. The Dolphins have relied heavily on first-year players, and two of them rank among the league's most impactful rookies entering Week 7.
1. Jacob Rodriguez, linebacker.
Rodriguez remains the class leader after recording 57 tackles, three tackles for loss, an interception and a pass breakup through five games. He has played between 92% and 100% of Miami's defensive snaps each week. RotoWire's Week 6 Rookie Impact Index ranks him No. 1 among 82 qualifying rookies, reflecting both production and an every-down role.
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2. Ollie Gordon II, running back.
Gordon has become Miami's offensive centerpiece. He leads the team with 236 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 47 carries, averaging 5 yards per attempt. Gordon gained 188 yards and scored twice in his two starts before the bye. A productive game against the Jets could move him to the top of this list.
3. Chris Johnson, cornerback.
Johnson has 31 tackles, two passes defended and a forced fumble. RotoWire ranks him 11th among qualifying NFL rookies, giving Miami two players in the top 15. His slot coverage will be tested by a Jets receiving group that added Omar Cooper Jr.'s 103-yard performance last week.
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4. Kadyn Proctor, guard.
Proctor has started from the opening week and helped Miami average 4.9 yards per rush. His power is most visible in the running game. The next step is reducing pressure allowed against New York's active front.
5. Michael Taaffe, safety.
Taaffe has 30 tackles, an interception, a forced fumble and a pass breakup. He has supplied range and ball production in a secondary filled with young players.
6. Dante Trader Jr., safety.
Trader has 26 tackles, three passes defended and an interception. His coverage has been uneven, but the snap load and playmaking show why the staff continues to trust him.
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7. Kevin Coleman Jr., receiver.
Coleman has five catches for 36 yards and one touchdown on 17 targets. His first NFL score against Cincinnati and growing target share make him Miami's most likely rookie riser.
8. Will Kacmarek, tight end.
Kacmarek has three receptions for 24 yards and contributes as a blocker and special-teams player. A hamstring injury limited him Wednesday, so his status bears watching.
Rodriguez leads because his role and production have been the most complete. Gordon has the clearest opportunity to challenge him. The larger story is that Miami's rookie class is no longer merely developing — it is carrying major portions of the team.
This story was originally published by Athlon on Oct 22, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
