Dolphins protect four practice squad players for Week 2

For the second consecutive week, the Miami Dolphins have protected four members of their 2020 practice squad to ensure they will not be poached by other teams across the NFL. And, for the second consecutive week, the Dolphins are protecting two standouts from the unit in CB Tae Hayes and TE Chris Myarick. Hayes and Myarick received the same designation in Week 1 of the 2020 season — but last week the duo was joined by CB Ken Webster and QB Jake Rudock.

Entering Week 2, neither Webster or Rudock is still with the team. As a result, Miami’s two additional protected players include Rudock’s replacement, quarterback Reid Sinnett, and long snapper Matt Orzech.

Webster terminated his contract with the Dolphins, removing himself from practice squad this week in a decision that would presumably indicate that he’s going to be signing on with a different team for the 2020 season. Given the Dolphins’ depth at cornerback and the presence of Hayes on the practice squad as well, it is understandable for Webster to look for alternatives in his bid to play.

For this week, the Dolphins know which of their practice squad is considered “untouchable” — and the team will continue to wok on player development to see if any of these talents can improve enough to warrant and command a place on the team’s active roster before the end of the season. Attrition and injuries may force the Dolphins hand on some fronts — but for now the challenge of retaining players worthy of being considered good depth is the top priority.