As the Miami Dolphins prepare to finalize their squad to the 53-man roster, all eyes are on the offensive line, set to undergo notable changes from last season, even with the absence of Robert Hunt. Anchoring the line will be familiar faces Austin Jackson and Terron Armstead, but the intrigue lies within the heart of the line, where competition and question marks abound.
The Dolphins traditionally have nine or ten offensive linemen on their roster, supplemented by two or three on the practice squad, a trend expected to continue into this season. Among those vying for a spot, Patrick Paul emerges as a sure selection thanks to his second-round draft pick status, leaving room for six or seven more players to fill the ranks.
Projected to make the cut is Aaron Brewer, poised to be the starting center with no significant competition in sight. Liam Eichenberg’s versatility may prove to be his ticket onto the team despite past inconsistencies, and Isiah Wynn’s potential at left guard cannot be ignored, health permitting. These decisions would solidify six positions on the line.
The selection process heats up with the remaining three or four spots. The Dolphins face tough decisions involving Kendall Lamm, Robert Jones, and Lester Cotton.
Lamm’s previous fill-in performances for Armstead lend him an edge, though his standing could be compromised by the drafting of Paul. Jack Driscoll, a new addition, must prove his worth to secure his place on the roster.
Robert Jones’s situation is tentative; his performance has been slightly above average and his potential is still unfolding. Meanwhile, undrafted rookies Chasen Hines and Cotton find themselves on shaky ground, with Jones likely edging them out for a spot.
Early predictions for the offensive line include Eichenberg, Lamm, Armstead, Paul, Jackson, Wynn, and Brewer as definitive picks, with Robert Jones and Driscoll rounding out the nine. Questions linger around Jones and Driscoll’s inclusion, with collegiate standout Matthew Jones potentially disrupting the status quo either as the tenth man or as a replacement.
As training camp unfolds, the competition within the Dolphins’ offensive line will be a key storyline, with each player’s performance possibly reshaping the final lineup.