The Miami Dolphins defense has an opportunity to build momentum in Week 1 against one of the NFL’s lowest-scoring offenses from last season.
On September 13 at 4:25 p.m. ET on FOX, the Dolphins will travel to Allegiant Stadium to take on the Las Vegas Raiders
. Miami’s defense has plenty to prove entering the new season, and a strong performance in Week 1 could provide an important confidence boost moving forward.The Dolphins ranked 24th in the NFL in points allowed during the 2025 season, while the Raiders finished dead last in points scored. Both teams are looking to make a 180-degree turnaround this season, but which team did more to improve during the offseason?
The Raiders made a major splash by acquiring the No. 1 overall pick and selecting
quarterback Fernando Mendoza, whom they view as thequarterback of the future. However, Kirk Cousins is expected to start the season under center while Mendoza develops. Outside of Mendoza, the Raiders selected just two skill-position players in the 2026 NFL Draft: Mike Washington Jr. in the fourth round and Malik Benson in the sixth. Their biggest improvements came along the offensive line, which they revamped during the offseason, while also adding wide receiver Jalen Nailor in free agency.
The Dolphins, meanwhile, focused heavily on improving their defense. Miami selected six defensive players in the 2026 NFL Draft, headlined by first-round cornerback Chris Johnson, a high-level playmaker out of San Diego State, and second-round linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, who was regarded as one of the top linebackers in the country coming out of college.
Miami also added pass rusher Joshua Uche in free agency and is counting on high-upside young players such as Chop Robinson and Kenneth Grant (currently on injured reserve) to take significant steps forward this season.
The Dolphins’ defense remains relatively young, but it will likely be asked to carry a significant portion of the team’s workload. One of Miami’s biggest issues last season was its inability to consistently generate pressure, giving opposing quarterbacks too much time to make decisions in the pocket.
That is something new head coach Jeff Hafley appears determined to change. His offseason emphasis on building in the trenches could help Miami create more pressure up front while allowing its young playmakers to make an impact on the back end.
This could be a highly competitive season opener, but the Dolphins’ defense has a prime opportunity to start the year on a strong note. Facing a Raiders offense that struggled to score last season, Miami has a chance to establish its identity early and potentially build confidence that carries throughout the season.
This article originally appeared on Dolphins Wire: Dolphins defense has golden opportunity to make statement in Week 1
