Phins offensive line is still the biggest question mark heading into the draft
The Miami Dolphins have made big move after big move this offseason and used plenty of 2022 Draft ammo to make it happen. Still, with a 3rd and 4th Round pick in hand, they have enough capital to select at least one player who can help them this season. While a talented running back or linebacker would be a nice addition, adding a quality offensive linemen to this roster might be even more critical.
At least, this is the way I see it.
O-line makes the NFL world go around!
While Jimmy Bourbon is big on adding a running back (I’m all for finally getting this run game going), I don’t trust the make up of this current offensive line group. Now, Eichenberg, Dieter, and Jackson could all turn the corner hard in 2022 and be stellar. In that case, we wouldn’t need to draft a offensive linemen in the 3rd or 4th Round. They could… I’m just not going to be the house with the best pay per head on it.
We had the worst offensive line in football in 2021. And if I’m going to be honest, it looked like the worst offensive line I’ve witnessed in my 42 years as a Dolphins fan. Terron Armstead is a true talent and we are so lucky he’s a Phin. Connor Williams is massive upgrade and Robert Hunt growing every season…
…But, injuries happen and 3 out of 5 offensive linemen backed by uncertainty in depth isn’t giving me the ‘warm cuddlies’. This is why we need to bolster this line even more.
Our late 3rd Round pick could be in firing range of a quality OL
The Dolphins brought in OL Zach Tom and G Cole Strange and both look to go somewhere in the 3rd to early 4th Round. Both are getting some draft hype and could go earlier of course. Still, Miami could find one or both available with their 102 pick… or in a small reach up. I did a ‘look-see’ at their film and while neither are perfect, both have some very good qualities. At the very least they could be quality depth at center and push Dieter for the starting position at some point during this season. Tom looks the better fit at center and some even seem him playing tackle as well down the road. While Strange didn’t look comfortable at the Senior Bowl at center, the position was all knew. The kid has the smarts and talent to figure it out, so I like his projection. Either of these kids though look like a good fit in our wide-zone run scheme.
If you want a look at some of their film and traits you can check this video at the 6:44 mark to see Tom and this vid at the 2:53 mark to see Strange.
I was given the heads up on Kentucky center Luke Fortner, but haven’t done a study on him. The quick look at him and his good reviews in my quick look up is good news. This could give Miami possibly three options for help or an upgrade.
Without a doubt Miami MUST have a good run game to reach any real success in the 2022 Season…
…But, it’s the Oline that will drive that success, so why not add more talent on the worst unit from last year? Go Phins!!!