For young Dolphins, shaky opener is part of rebuilding process

The Miami Dolphins’ season-opening loss to the Las Vegas Raiders was a sobering reminder of the growing pains that come with a full organizational rebuild. The Dolphins are carrying roughly $183 million in dead cap money this year, and absorbing that hit means they have to rely on young players. That makes Sunday’s 27-13 loss somewhat expected. Miami’s young secondary was exploited by veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, both lines were overmatched physically, and the offense was inconsistent.

But coach Jeff Hafley said he was encouraged by his team’s effort.

Read the original report at Apnews.