Caleb Douglas Steps Up for Miami Dolphins Before Patriots Clash

Strong Return After Injury Break

Miami Dolphins rookie wide receiver Caleb Douglas is back on the field after missing three games with an ankle injury. Before his fitness setback, he played all 27 possible games over his final two college seasons at Texas Tech. His previous extended period on the sidelines goes back to his time at Florida.

Douglas made an instant impact during the Week 7 victory over the New York Jets. He finished the match with two catches for 70 yards and scored two touchdowns. His highlight moment arrived in the fourth quarter when he scored on a 63 yard catch and run.

Focus on Blocking and Teamwork

Head coach Jeff Hafley praised Douglas for avoiding procedural errors despite his absence. Hafley also highlighted his physicality in the run game. Miami rushed for 156 yards last week, marking their fifth consecutive game with over 100 rushing yards.

Receivers coach Tyke Tolbert believes blocking comes down to effort. Tolbert expects his receivers to work hard for their teammates, whether carrying the ball or blocking defenders. Teammate Malik Washington did exactly that, acting as a lead blocker on Douglas' second touchdown.

Douglas explained that he takes pride in blocking. He stated that it does not feel good when his man makes a play, adding that preventing a defender from reaching the ball comes down to personal effort.

Previews Patriots Challenge

Miami will now play the New England Patriots. Douglas could find himself matched up against Pro Bowl cornerback Christian Gonzalez. Gonzalez has allowed 15 catches for 144 yards across 175 coverage snaps this season.

Douglas called the potential battle a great opportunity, but he refused to overcomplicate the situation. He said Gonzalez is just another defensive back and explained that his main job is to go out there and win his one eleventh.