With Tua Tagovailoa poised for a big-time contract, protecting him and the run game will be crucial in putting the pieces together to win the division and, more importantly, compete for a championship. In a group that looks a lot different coming into 2024, many questions will have to be answered as Miami has been relatively reserved in “re-upping” their offensive line.
Firstly, the good news: Terron Armstead returns for another year with the Dolphins. Armstead is undoubtedly the third-most-valuable piece of this high-powered offense. Despite battling injuries throughout his career, his veteran presence provided a calming influence in every game he played. His absence was keenly felt when he wasn't on the field. Additionally, backup swing tackle Kendall Lamm admirably filled in for Armstead during limited games last year. Re-signing him was one of the more underrated moves Miami made this offseason.
Completing the interior spots, Isaiah Wynn played some of his best football last season before his injury, and expectations are high for him to continue where he left off. Former Titans starting G/C Aaron Brewer was signed to the team to fill the role of Connor Williams. Brewer's style aligns well with the brand Mike McDaniel has instilled in the offense: speed and versatility. He is widely regarded as one of the most athletic interior linemen in the league.
To his right is where Chris Grier and McDaniel have faced criticism. Currently, the spot seems likely to go to either Robert Jones or a newcomer from Philadelphia, Jack Driscoll. Jones, while familiar with the offense, was not consistently reliable. On the other hand, Driscoll appears more like a utility lineman, capable of playing various roles and even working into unique formations, as he did in Philadelphia as a sixth offensive lineman for heavier formations. Many expected the Dolphins to address this situation during the draft, but instead of selecting from a pool of talented guards, Grier and co. decided to draft Houston left tackle Patrick Paul.
I have a love-hate relationship with Paul's game. After reviewing three seasons of film on him, it's safe to say that his best football is ahead of him. However, this sentiment also raises concerns, as Paul entered the draft as one of the more experienced prospects in his class. Nevertheless, when you're 6-foot-8 and 330 pounds with 36-inch arms, there's undeniable potential. With Butch Barry's guidance, Paul could become a standout player.
Returning to my earlier point about Armstead's value to the team, it's worth mentioning that a significant portion of that value lies in what he brings to the offensive line room itself. Armstead is widely respected for selflessly mentoring young linemen at every opportunity. Since his arrival, players like Austin Jackson and former Dolphin Robert Hunt have made significant strides in their productivity, thanks in part to Armstead's mentorship. If he can establish a similar relationship with Paul, the sky's the limit.
After the draft, Grier addressed concerns about Paul's technical shortcomings by emphasizing his consistent productivity despite them. This echoes my assessment of him. Paul, especially in pass protection, offers genuine plug-and-play ability in his first season due to a solid understanding of protection principles and being such a towering obstacle. However, I anticipate a development year for Paul as Barry molds him into Armstead's successor as he hones in on his upper-body techniques and run-game footwork.
With Jackson's emergence as a star last season, the right tackle position appears to be secure. Jackson finally put it all together, and now it's a matter of maintaining consistency and availability.
As for the starting right guard position, only time will tell. In past seasons, Grier has highlighted the disparities between the organization's evaluations of their offensive line and the media consensus. Last year, his evaluations proved accurate, resulting in one of the league's best offensive lines when healthy. I expect a similar outcome this year.
Between Lester Cotton, Liam Eichenberg, Jones, and Driscoll, Barry will have his hands full rounding out the interior of this offensive line, barring any late offseason acquisitions.
Regarding the bottom half of the room, former USF basketball player Bayron Matos possesses an impressive athletic foundation as he transitions to NFL football as an offensive tackle. From what I've seen in limited exposures, his movement skills are immediately applicable to the position. However, it will take effort to fully integrate everything and demonstrate his worth and promise. This task is easier said than done in the NFL. Other undrafted free agents, such as Matthew Jones from Georgia and especially Andrew Meyer from UTEP, appear to be capable contenders for roster spots on the final 53.
Overall, this group is expected to take another step forward, as offensive line issues plagued the Dolphins during their historic season last year. While questions linger, there is a sense of comfort and confidence from the front office and staff regarding this line, fostering optimism as the Dolphins aim to make a deep playoff run.
