DAVIE, FLA. (WSVN) - The Miami Dolphins opened up their training camp, Thursday, just one season after making the playoffs for the first time in eight years.
Head Coach Adam Gase, now in his second season with the team, led the team through early morning drills at Dolphins Training Camp in Davie. They showcased quarterback Ryan Tannehill.
Dropping into the backfield on a knee, Tannehill said he is feeling great.
Those on the field wore jerseys and helmets during the 8:25 a.m. practice, and every player was accounted for.
There was a different air surrounding day one of camp, an air full of renewed expectations after falling short during their AFC Wild Card game versus the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Speaking with reporters, Gase said he has noticed a difference this year. “I really feel like our guys came out with a purpose, just knowing what to expect,” he said.
“Expectations are up,” said Tannehill. “That’s what you want. You want to be putting that pressure on yourself. I think we have the right people in this building to do what we need to do, and the mindset is right. Now, it’s a matter of establishing practice habits, going out, challenging each other every day.”
However, Dolphins defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh said he isn’t ready to talk about expectations.
“Expectations? I’m not ready to talk about those just yet,” he said. “We gotta get into the season first. Maybe after we get our third preseason game, that’s where we get a true sense of what we have in some sense.”
Dolphins owner Stephen Ross is going into his 10th season. “Everybody is excited to get started,” he said. “We had a good season last year. I think everybody is excited for this year. The ticket sales have kind of reflected that, and just the whole attitude. You can feel it in the town.”
The training was a celebration for many reasons. Tannehill also turned 29 that day.
Dolphins wide receiver Kenny Stills asked what gifts he got. “I got nothing so far,” replied Tannehill.
“You guys told him happy birthday, right?” Stills asked reporters on the field.
“No, they didn’t,” said Tannehill.
“Happy birthday to the quarterback,” said Stills.
Players will practice with shorts and helmets on Thursday and Friday. They will put the pads on Saturday.
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