LiamEichenberg hype continues into another offseason
The Miami Dolphins have made a curious — if not eyebrow-raising — decision to re-sign offensive lineman Liam Eichenberg. For those tracking the team’s recent efforts to bolster its offensive front, this move might feel like more of the same: banking on potential and intangibles rather than consistent on-field performance.
Offensive line coach Butch Barry was effusive in his praise for Eichenberg when addressing reporters this week.
“He’s a glue in the room,” Barry said. “Does an unbelievable job with the whole room. Doing an unbelievable job with younger players. He’s a leader by nature in terms of how to do the standard of work. He can play a lot of different positions, has multiplicity, and I think that’s very important.”
Is Eichenberg ‘Elmer’s’ or ‘Krazy’ Glue?
That’s high praise for a player whose NFL journey so far has been — generously put — uneven. Since being drafted in the second round in 2021, Eichenberg has struggled to establish himself as a reliable starter. Injuries, inconsistent play, and frequent shuffling across the line have plagued his early career. While positional flexibility is certainly a useful trait, it’s often code for “hasn’t locked down a job.”
Miami’s offensive line has been under scrutiny for years, and you can bet with the best pay per head that Tua injury history has only magnified the need for rock-solid protection. Investing another season into a player still trying to find his footing seems like a gamble, especially when free agency and the draft offered other options.
Oline has been an issue & Liam has been the glue in that
To be fair, there’s a case to be made for Eichenberg. He’s entering a critical phase of his career — old enough to be experienced, young enough to improve. Continuity in coaching and a more stable system could help him finally deliver on the promise that made him a Day 2 draft pick out of Notre Dame.
Still, “glue guy” is a label often reserved for players who contribute in ways stats can’t measure. But in a results-driven league, leadership and versatility will only go so far if the tape doesn’t back it up.
So, while the Dolphins’ brass may see Liam Eichenberg as a steadying force in the locker room, many are waiting to see if he can become something more — a steadying force on the field.
Until then, skepticism remains not only fair, but necessary. Go Phins!!!
Every team needs that O/L that is a swingman. Sort of a Swiss Army knife. They are usually tweeners that can play almost anywhere along the line. I suppose Liam is that guy! He is a good role model too, right. I have never seen him dominate. I’ll bet he works cheap! Not impressed!
Every team needs that O/L that is a swingman. Sort of a Swiss Army knife. They are usually tweeners that can play almost anywhere along the line. I suppose Liam is that guy! He is a good role model too, right. I have never seen him dominate. I’ll bet he works cheap! Not impressed!