Heading into the 2024 season, the Miami Dolphins’ offensive line is facing significant scrutiny and remains partly unresolved. They are preparing to go up against the Jacksonville Jaguars’ formidable defensive line, which includes three former first-round picks. Last season, Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker of the Jaguars led the NFL in sacks as a duo, with a combined total of 27.5.
Hines-Allen alone had the second-most sacks in the league. Also bolstering the Jaguars’ defensive strength, former 49ers defensive tackle Arik Armstead, who despite injuries, posted the third-highest sack total of his career and contributed to the 49ers’ Super Bowl run.
Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel recognized the challenge his team faces, praising the Jaguars’ talent and indicating that any weaknesses in his team’s gameplay would be exposed. He highlighted the evolution of Travon Walker, who after a modest rookie season, surged in his performance by nearly tripling his sack count.
The Jaguars are switching defensive strategies under new coordinator Ryan Nielsen, shifting from a 3-4 defense to a scheme featuring four linemen. Nielsen, previously with the Atlanta Falcons, brings a legacy of a defense that was ranked 11th in limiting opponent yardage in 2023.
On the Dolphins’ side, the offensive line is adjusting after the departure of Connor Williams to the Seahawks and injuries to key players like Aaron Brewer and Isaiah Wynn. Liam Eichenberg and others have been adjusting positions to fill gaps. Despite these challenges and uncertainties, McDaniel remains optimistic about his line-up and their readiness for the season.
This mix of shifting team strategies, evolving player roles, and injury management sets the stage for what promises to be an intensely competitive matchup between the Dolphins and the Jaguars as the regular season approaches.
