The Miami Dolphins are considering Georgia safety Malaki Starks as a possible pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, but they have larger needs to address with their 13th overall selection. The focus should be on bolstering the offensive and defensive lines, rather than reaching for a safety. The team has struggled with tough yards, indicating a pressing need for offensive linemen. The defensive line also needs reinforcement, especially with multiple key players potentially hitting free agency.

Examining recent playoff performances highlights the importance of dominating the trenches. Both the NFC and AFC Championship games showcased how pivotal line play is for success. The Dolphins should aim to replicate successful past picks, like Christian Wilkins, to shape a more robust roster. While safety depth poses a concern, the team must prioritize positions that significantly influence the game’s outcome.

Chop Robinson, the Miami Dolphins' first-round pick from the 2024 NFL Draft, has quickly made a name for himself in the league. Just days after being selected to the Professional Football Writers Association's All-Rookie team, he has now been recognized as one of the five finalists for the Associated Press Defensive Rookie of the Year award. His impressive rookie season included six sacks and 14 quarterback hits, placing him second on the Dolphins' defense behind team MVP Zach Sieler.

Notably, Robinson's performance improved significantly as the season progressed, recording multiple sacks in key games against strong opponents, such as the Buffalo Bills and Houston Texans. His notable achievements have drawn attention and praise, solidifying his status as a rising star in the NFL. The winner of the AP Defensive Rookie of the Year will be revealed during the NFL Honors on February 6, ahead of the Super Bowl.

In related news, the Coach of the Year and Assistant Coach of the Year categories feature several former Dolphins coaches, highlighting the organization’s influence on the league. Dan Campbell and Dan Quinn are among the prominent figures recognized for their coaching excellence this season, showcasing the Miami Dolphins' lasting impact on their coaching staff.

The Miami Dolphins faced a disappointing season, resulting in no players being selected for the AFC Pro Bowl roster, AP All-Pro teams, or the All-AFC team, reflecting their struggles after missing the playoffs for the first time in three years. Despite a rough start, the Dolphins showed resilience, finishing 6-3 in their last nine games, contributing to their eight-win season.

As the team prepares for the 2024 season, the focus shifts to recognizing key players who stood out amidst the challenges. Leading the list is defensive tackle Zach Sieler, voted team MVP, whose presence was crucial to the team's defensive performance. Following him are fellow defensive lineman Calais Campbell, kicker Jason Sanders, and rookie running back De'Von Achane, among others, highlighting a blend of established talent and younger prospects.

The Miami Dolphins are facing internal challenges following a disappointing 2024 season, including player tardiness that contributed to a missed playoff opportunity. Star receiver Tyreek Hill met with general manager Chris Grier and head coach Mike McDaniel but did not formally request a trade despite expressing frustration after the loss to the New York Jets. Grier emphasized the productive nature of the discussions while acknowledging Hill's emotional state during the season.

McDaniel confronted Hill about leaving the game early, stating that such behavior is unacceptable. Both men agreed to address a culture of lateness among players, with McDaniel indicating changes in his coaching approach will be necessary. Linebacker Bradley Chubb and defensive tackle Zach Sieler echoed the need for players to hold one another accountable for attendance and performance. Grier noted that the Dolphins' 8-9 record is not acceptable and emphasized the importance of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa maintaining his availability moving forward.

The Miami Dolphins showcased remarkable resilience in the 2024 season, finishing fourth in total defense despite significant absences from their star pass rushers Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips. Both players are looking optimistically toward the future, particularly with the promising emergence of rookie Chop Robinson. Chubb's recovery from a torn ACL sidelined him entirely, while Phillips returned from an Achilles tear only to suffer an ACL injury himself.

With the Dolphins already having secured Phillips for his fifth year and Robinson entering his second season, the potential for a formidable defense in 2025 is palpable. Phillips expressed excitement about the possibilities of working alongside Chubb and Robinson, emphasizing their ability to build a strong unit together in the offseason. Chubb echoed this sentiment but also raised concerns about his hefty contract, which presents future salary cap challenges for the Dolphins.