Miami Dolphins Name 2025 Season Captains: A Mix of Familiar Faces and a Surprising Omission

The Miami Dolphins have officially announced their team captains for the highly anticipated 2025 NFL season, revealing a leadership group comprised of seasoned veterans and rising stars. While the selections largely align with expectations, one notable absence has sparked considerable discussion among fans and analysts alike: star wide receiver Tyreek Hill.

Head Coach Mike McDaniel unveiled the leadership core today, emphasizing the importance of these individuals in setting the tone and guiding the team throughout what promises to be a challenging campaign.

The chosen captains are quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, defensive stalwart Jaelan Phillips, veteran safety Jevon Holland, and special teams ace Duke Riley. Each brings a unique blend of experience, performance, and vocal leadership to their respective units.

Tua Tagovailoa's selection as an offensive captain comes as no surprise, solidifying his role as the undisputed leader under center.

His continued development, composure, and command of the offense make him a natural fit for the responsibility. On the defensive side, Jaelan Phillips, a formidable pass-rusher, has consistently demonstrated his prowess and dedication, earning him a captaincy. His intensity and work ethic are infectious, making him a critical voice in the locker room.

Jevon Holland, another cornerstone of the defense, exemplifies consistency and a high football IQ, commanding respect from his peers.

The inclusion of Duke Riley as a special teams captain underscores the team's commitment to excellence in all three phases of the game. Riley's dedication and impact on special teams units have been invaluable, and his leadership will be crucial in that often-overlooked but vital aspect of football.

However, the most significant talking point revolves around the omission of Tyreek Hill.

A transcendent talent and one of the most dynamic playmakers in the league, Hill has often been seen as a de facto leader on the offense due to his sheer presence and game-changing abilities. While the reasons for his exclusion from the formal captain group were not explicitly detailed by the coaching staff, it suggests a potential shift in leadership dynamics or a desire to highlight other voices within the locker room.

It's plausible that the coaching staff aims to empower a broader group of players or perhaps wants Hill to focus purely on his unparalleled on-field performance without the added formal leadership burden.

This decision, while perhaps unexpected to some, highlights the multifaceted nature of team leadership.

It's a clear statement from the Dolphins' coaching staff about who they believe will best represent the team's values and guide them through the rigors of an NFL season. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on this newly defined leadership group to see how they steer the Dolphins towards their aspirations.