Erik Ezukanma’s return boosts confidence in Miami’s wide receiver depth

Ezukanma’s standout preseason performance highlights his potential and strengthens the Dolphins’ receiving corps.

The Miami Dolphins needed a boost at wide receiver, and Erik Ezukanma delivered a big-time performance Saturday night. The 2022 fourth-round pick secured a team-high five receptions while being targeted seven times. He was in control with a game-high 65 receiving yards in Miami’s 13-6 win over the Washington Commanders in Week 2 of the preseason.

The Dolphins couldn’t get much of anything going through the air last week as quarterbacks Mike White and Skylar Thompson completed just 12 of 33 pass attempts (36%). The receiving group of Malik Washington, Willie Snead IV, Braylon Sanders, and Je’Quon Burton combined to catch one of 14 targets for a total of five yards against the Atlanta Falcons, but Miami’s backup quarterbacks looked much better with Ezukanma back in the mix.

Entering his third season, Ezukanma brought stability to the struggling receiving core by catching passes from both White and Thompson. He also displayed his downfield ability with a 35-yard reception late in the third quarter.

Ezukanma impressed last preseason with two rushing attempts for 52 yards. He showcased that same explosiveness Saturday night by turning an eight-yard loss into a six-yard gain early in the third quarter.

Despite playing just 29 snaps last season, Ezukanma is cleared from the lingering neck injury that disrupted his momentum and appears ready to resume his strong play from where he left off.

Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images

Looking ahead, Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Odell Beckham Jr., and River Cracraft should be locks to make the 53-man roster. With limited spots remaining, the Dolphins face a tough decision at the end of training camp. However, Ezukanma’s standout performance against Washington serves as a reminder of his potential and highlights his fit within Mike McDaniel’s ever-evolving offense.