Miami Dolphins' general manager Chris Grier has established a reputation for his success in the first and second rounds of the NFL Draft, but the team's performance diminishes significantly in the later rounds. As the Dolphins prepare for the upcoming draft, which is set to take place in Green Bay, their draft strategy will be crucial. With the potential of acquiring up to 10 picks, including compensatory selections for free agency losses, the Dolphins aim to build depth and address key positional needs.

Among the top priorities for Miami are finding a reliable backup quarterback and upgrading the offensive line, particularly at guard. Defensively, the team is looking for better performance from their safeties and is in need of a strong presence on the interior defensive line. Additionally, the running game has struggled, and the Dolphins seek a versatile back to take pressure off quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.

Miami Dolphins' General Manager Chris Grier has faced scrutiny over the state of the team's offensive line, especially following a dismissive remark in a press conference. Grier clarified his intentions, emphasizing his commitment to improving the line since taking over in 2019. In his first draft, he selected Michael Deiter and has since added notable players like Austin Jackson, Robert Hunt, and most recently, Patrick Paul and Aaron Brewer. Despite these efforts, the results have been mixed; many drafted players have struggled to develop or perform consistently. The team's investment in free agency has yielded better outcomes, particularly with the acquisitions of Terron Armstead and Connor Williams, both of whom made significant impacts. However, the Dolphins still face challenges, including missed opportunities in the draft that could have fortified their offensive line further.

The Miami Dolphins find themselves in a challenging offseason following a subpar 2024 season, ending with an 8-9 record and missing the playoffs. With a tight budget, the team is currently $2.6 million over the projected salary cap, a significant shift from last year when they started $51.9 million over. The situation is exacerbated by the recent $212.4 million extension for quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, which increases his cap hit to $39.44 million.

In addition to managing Tagovailoa's lucrative deal, the Dolphins will have to make critical decisions regarding their own free agents, such as safeties Jevon Holland and Jordan Poyer, along with multiple guards and defensive players. The team may have to look for economical options in free agency to fill the roster's gaps, especially in light of potential retirements among veteran players.

The Miami Dolphins are facing a critical situation at their tackle positions as they prepare for a must-win game against the New York Jets. Right tackle Kendall Lamm has been placed on injured reserve, ending his season after stepping in for Austin Jackson. Left tackle Terron Armstead's availability is also uncertain due to recent injuries, raising concerns about the offensive line's stability.

In previous games without both Lamm and Armstead, rookie Patrick Paul and backup Jackson Carman filled the tackle spots, but Carman struggled against the Houston Texans, allowing two sacks on quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Offensive coordinator Frank Smith acknowledged the need for improvement from the offensive line and emphasized the importance of game experience for players like Carman.

The Dolphins are considering moving guards Isaiah Wynn or Liam Eichenberg to tackle if necessary. Additionally, they have signed tackle Braeden Daniels from the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad, who was a fourth-round pick by the Washington Commanders. His versatility is seen as an asset as the Dolphins navigate their tackle dilemma, especially with backup quarterback Tyler Huntley expected to start in place of Tagovailoa due to injury.

The Miami Dolphins implemented a rotation at right guard during their victory over the San Francisco 49ers, featuring Isaiah Wynn and Liam Eichenberg. Coach Mike McDaniel praised the strategy, noting that both players contributed to the team's success, including a strong running game that saw De’Von Achane surpass 100 rushing yards for the first time this season.

While Wynn's presence seemed to boost the running game, analysis suggests that the overall performance was a collective effort from the offensive line. The Dolphins' running stats showed improvement, but Wynn alone cannot be credited for the resurgence. As the team looks toward the future, potential draft picks and free agents could further enhance their offensive line.