Dolphins' Gase: Ajayi creating separation atop RB depth chart

Jay Ajayi appears to be the runaway favorite for the featured backfield role in Miami.

Dolphins head coach Adam Gase said in an appearance on WQAM 560 on Thursday that, although others at the position have shown well, it's the 2015 fifth-round pick that's established himself as the team's top running back thus far.

"He's been one of those guys he's been here every day," Gase said, according to Omar Kelly of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.

"He's done everything right. You can tell he's looking to improve. He doesn't say much, just keeps working. The rest of that group has done a good job to try and keep up with him, but obviously he's kind of separated himself from that group as far as the consistency of what he does day in and day out."

Lamar Miller's free-agent departure immediately created the opportunity for Ajayi to take on a more substantial role, and the coaching staff certainly seems pleased with how he's responded.

The 22-year-old, who tallied 187 yards and one touchdown on 49 rushing attempts in an injury-shortened rookie campaign, will likely remain in the lead spot heading into training camp this summer.

Damien Williams and third-round rookie Kenyan Drake headline the list of several players who could challenge for snaps of their own with strong showings in the preseason.