Honoring Legends: Celebrating the Players Who Defined Dolphins Football

The Miami Dolphins have only retired three jersey numbers in franchise history—Bob Griese’s #12, Dan Marino’s #13, and Larry Csonka’s #39. Instead, the team has built its legacy through the Ring of Honor, an exclusive recognition bestowed upon those who have made lasting contributions to the franchise.

Though numbers like #54 (Zach Thomas) and #99 (Jason Taylor) have not been officially retired, they’ve been effectively taken out of circulation—a quiet but powerful nod to the immense impact those players had on the Dolphins’ identity, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.

With 23 players and just two coaches inducted, the Ring of Honor remains a high standard—one that’s not handed out lightly. But the time has come for another Dolphins defender to take his rightful place among these legends.

Another name that belongs in that exclusive circle of greatness is Cameron Wake.

His number remains in circulation, but his legacy is worthy of permanent recognition in the Dolphins’ Ring of Honor.

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Humble Beginnings at Penn State

Long before Cameron Wake terrorized quarterbacks on Sundays, he was just an overlooked college prospect trying to find his place at Penn State. Recruited as a linebacker, Wake—then known as Derek Wake—showed flashes of potential, but never quite found his breakout moment in college. He registered modest stats and signed as an undrafted free agent in 2005 before getting cut by the Giants. A disappointment that might’ve ended the story for most players.

But not for Cam.

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A Star is Born in the CFL

After a brief and uneventful stint with the New York Giants, Wake found himself out of football and working odd jobs to stay afloat. Refusing to give up on his dream, Wake reinvented himself in the Canadian Football League, signing with the BC Lions in 2007. It was there he fully transformed—not just into a professional athlete, but into a force of nature.

Wake dominated the CFL like few ever had. In his rookie year, he led the league in sacks and earned CFL Most Outstanding Rookie. He followed that up with back-to-back Most Outstanding Defensive Player awards in 2007 and 2008. He wasn’t just good—he was undeniable.

Year	Team	Games		Tackles		Interceptions						Fumbles
		GP	GS	Cmb	Sck	PD	Int	Yds	Avg	Lng	TD	FF	FR	Yds	TD
2007	BC	18	18	72	16.0	0	0	0	0.0	0	0	3	0	0	0
2008	BC	18	18	65	23.0	0	0	0	0.0	0	0	5	3	45	1
Total		36	36	137	39.0	0	0	0	0.0	0	0	8	3	45	1

He used his time in Canada to sharpen his craft, build his body, and prepare for a second shot at the NFL.

The Dolphins Take a Chance

In 2009, the Miami Dolphins bet on a CFL breakout star others had ignored—and it paid off in a big way.

Wake exploded onto the scene with his relentless motor, explosive first step, and ability to bend around tackles like a heat-seeking missile. He quickly evolved into one of the NFL’s elite pass rushers, compiling 98 sacks over 10 seasons in Miami, the second-most in franchise history, trailing only Hall of Famer Jason Taylor.

Wake didn’t just get stats—he made statements. His 4.5-sack game against the Cardinals in 2012 remains one of the most dominant single-game defensive performances in team history. And his Halloween walk-off safety in overtime against the Bengals in 2013? That’s not just a highlight—it’s part of Dolphins lore.

Here’s a closer look at just how consistently productive he was:

• 100.5 sacks

• 364 total tackles (282 solo)

• 22 forced fumbles

• 2 fumble recoveries

• 16 pass deflections

• 1 interception

• NFL Awards

  • First-team All-Pro (2012)
  • 3× Second-team All-Pro (2010, 2014, 2016)
  • 5× Pro Bowl (2010, 2012–2014, 2016)

Wake’s 100th sack came as a member of the Tennessee Titans, and just like many of his sacks, it was quite memorable.

Cameron Wake’s 100th Career Sack

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A Leader, a Warrior, a Legend

More than just numbers, Wake was a moment-maker—a guy who delivered in clutch situations and brought the same intensity to every snap, even when the team around him faltered. He was a consistent spark during some of the Dolphins’ darkest years, never coasting, never complaining, always competing.

Even in his later years, battling injuries and age, Wake remained productive and dangerous. He earned five Pro Bowl selections (2010, 2012–2014, 2016), was named First-Team All-Pro in 2012, and earned Second-Team All-Pro honors three times. That’s elite company—among pass rushers of his era, few matched his blend of longevity, leadership, and big-play ability.

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More Than Just a Player

What made Wake special wasn’t just what he did on the field. It was who he was off it.

He led by example in the locker room, mentored young players, and set the tone during training camps and Sunday warmups. He was also active in the Miami community, contributing to numerous charitable causes and youth organizations. His legacy isn’t just in sacks or highlight reels—it’s in lives impacted.

As a young fan, I remember mimicking his sack celebration in my living room after every big play. He wasn’t just a favorite—he was a hero. One memory that still sticks with me is his and Ndamukong Suh’s sack on Bryce Petty. I wanted that 100th sack for him in a Dolphins uniform so badly. But whether he finished at 98 or 108, the impact is the same.

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A Fitting Place Among the Greats

Cameron Wake’s story transcends stats and accolades. He embodies everything the Miami Dolphins claim to stand for—resilience, excellence, leadership, and heart.

He overcame every obstacle: undrafted, released, doubted, and overlooked. And in doing so, he became not only one of the best pass rushers in franchise history, but also one of its most inspiring figures.

Adding Wake to the Dolphins’ Ring of Honor isn’t just symbolic—it’s a long-overdue acknowledgment of his greatness.

He wore aqua and orange with pride and was a beacon of consistency throughout the 2010s.

The only injustice done to Cam was the team’s inability to surround him with a true contender. Week in and week out, Wake gave everything he had—emerging as one of the greatest defensive ends not just in Dolphins history, but in NFL history.

Now, it’s time for the Dolphins to return the favor—and give him the permanent recognition he so clearly deserves.

Put 91 in the Ring.

The Miami Dolphins are in desperate need of defensive tackles. After letting Christian Wilkins walk in free agency over a year ago, the Dolphins turned to Calais Campbell who was not only a great player on the field but an excellent resource of the field. The former Walter Payton Man of the year showed why he earned the prestigious award through his leadership on and off the field, and his impact in the community.

As the offseason went on and Campbell mentioned he would like to return to Miami, Chris Grier didn’t pull the trigger, and Calais Campbell went back to Arizona where it all started. Campbell has earned the right to do that and its well-deserved, but this move backed the Dolphins into a corner.

Thankfully for Miami there will be players that can make an impact available at their first three selections, 13, 48.and 98. In this article I will outline the best options based on talent, their availability at Miami’s picks and their fit next to Zach Sieler.

Miami also needs a corner. If you would like to see my corner back rankings you can read that here: Dolphins’ Cornerback Search: Ranking 2025 NFL Draft Prospects to Pair with Jalen Ramsey

*That article was written before the Ramsey news, so the need for corner may trump that of defensive line*

Top-Tier Prospects (Ranked 1-3)

Mason Graham, DT, Michigan

• Scouting Report: Graham is widely regarded as the top defensive tackle in the 2025 class, blending explosive athleticism, technical refinement, and versatility. At 6’3″, 320 pounds, he excels both as a pass-rusher and run-stopper, with quick feet, upper-body strength, and a relentless motor. His ability to play multiple techniques (0-tech to 5-tech) makes him scheme-versatile. Graham’s pass-rush win rate (14%) and pressure rate (10.3%) are elite, drawing comparisons to Jalen Carter. While his shorter-than-ideal arm length may pose some concerns, his football IQ and consistent disruption overshadow this. He’s noted for dominating one-on-one blocks and anchoring defensive fronts.

• Strengths: Explosive first step, elite hand usage, high motor, scheme versatility, exceptional run defense.

• Weaknesses: Pass rush needs more work, highly reliant on bull rush.

• *Likely won’t be available for Miami*

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Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss

• Scouting Report: A former five-star recruit, Nolen (6’3″, 305 pounds) is a twitchy, disruptive force with superlative burst and power. His versatility allows him to play 3-technique, 4i-tech, or defensive end in even fronts, reminiscent of Ed Oliver. Nolen’s 2023 stats (4 sacks, 8.5 TFLs) reflect raw talent, but he’s still developing consistency in technique and ball awareness. He excels in penetrating defenses using a violent hump move and hip flexibility to jolt blockers. However, he can get washed out in run defense due to inconsistent pad level and vision. His transfer to Ole Miss boosted his stock with improved production.

• Strengths: Elite explosiveness, versatile alignment, high-energy pass rush, raw potential.

• Weaknesses: Inconsistent technique, occasional lapses in run defense.

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Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan

• Scouting Report: A freakish athlete at 6’3″, 339 pounds, Grant is the premier nose tackle in the 2025 class, capable of dominating the interior with raw power and surprising agility. Reportedly running a sub-5.0 40-yard dash, he overwhelms blockers with strength and anchors against double-teams. His pass-rush win rate (9.1%) and pressure rate (8.8%) are solid but lag behind Graham and Nolen, as his game is more run-stopping focused. Grant struggles with consistency in pass-rush moves and can be slow to disengage. His fit is best in a 0- or 1-tech role in a 3-4 defense.

• Strengths: Elite size and strength, dominant run-stopper, anchors double-teams, surprising quickness.

• Weaknesses: Limited pass-rush repertoire, slower to shed blocks, scheme-specific fit.

• Would be a great compliment to Zach Sieler and Miami’s elite pass rush.

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Second-Tier Prospects (Ranked 4-6)

Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon

• Scouting Report: Harmon (6’5″, 310 pounds) emerged as a riser after a standout 2024 season at Oregon, showcasing high football IQ, quickness, and competitiveness. His pass-rush win rate (12.3%) and pressure rate (11%) rival top-tier DTs, with quick hands and a club/rip move that disrupts pockets. He excels at shooting gaps and redirecting runners but lacks elite physical traits, limiting his ceiling. Harmon’s single year of notable production raises questions about consistency, but his instincts and awareness make him a safe bet for an even-front 3-technique role.

• Strengths: Quick hands, high IQ, gap-shooting ability, effective pass-rusher.

• Weaknesses: Limited elite traits, one-year production, not a dominant anchor.

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Tyleik Williams, DT, Ohio State

• Scouting Report: Williams (6’3″, 327 pounds) is a powerful, stout defender with a good blend of size and athleticism. His 2023 production (10 TFLs, 5 sacks) highlights his ability to disrupt both run and pass plays. He’s effective as a 3-technique with a strong bull rush and solid hand usage, but his pad level can be inconsistent, leading to leverage issues against double-teams. Williams’ athletic testing was not as elite as expected, which dropped him slightly on some boards. He’s a versatile fit for 4-3 or 3-4 schemes but needs to refine his technique to maximize impact.

• Strengths: Power-based rush, solid production, versatile scheme fit, strong run defense.

• Weaknesses: Inconsistent pad level, average athletic testing, needs technical polish.

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T.J. Sanders, DT, South Carolina

• Scouting Report: Sanders (6’4″, 290 pounds) is a toolsy defender with good length and athleticism, making him a disruptive 3-technique prospect. His quick first step and ability to penetrate gaps create negative plays, but he lacks elite strength, which can see him washed out against stronger linemen. Sanders’ pass-rush production is solid but not spectacular, and he’s still developing a consistent counter-move set. His upside lies in his frame and motor, but he needs coaching to unlock his full potential.

• Strengths: Quickness off the snap, good length, high upside, solid motor.

• Weaknesses: Lacks elite strength, underdeveloped pass-rush moves, inconsistent run defense.

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Third-Tier Prospects (Ranked 7-10)

Alfred Collins, DT, Texas

• Scouting Report: Collins (6’5″, 320 pounds) is a long, athletic lineman with versatility to play DE or DT in various fronts. His 2024 season showed improvement in run defense and pass-rush disruption, but he’s inconsistent, often relying on raw athleticism over technique. His length helps bat passes and clog lanes, but he struggles to anchor against double-teams and lacks a refined pass-rush plan. Collins’ upside is high, but his inconsistent production keeps him out of the top tier.

• Strengths: Elite length, athletic upside, versatile alignment, pass disruption.

• Weaknesses: Inconsistent production, raw technique, struggles vs. double-teams.

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Darius Alexander, DT, Toledo

• Scouting Report: Alexander (6’4″, 310 pounds) is a late riser after a strong Senior Bowl and NFL Combine (4.95 40-yard dash, 9.72 RAS, 28 bench reps). His athleticism and length make him a disruptive 3-technique, with a quick first step and active hands. However, his age (25 as a rookie) and lack of elite competition at Toledo temper expectations. Alexander’s production was solid but not dominant, and he needs to improve consistency against NFL-caliber linemen. His combine performance boosted his stock significantly.

• Strengths: Elite athletic testing, good length, quick first step, combine riser.

• Weaknesses: Older prospect, limited high-level competition, inconsistent production.

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Omarr Norman-Lott, DT, Tennessee

• Scouting Report: Norman-Lott (6’3″, 315 pounds) is an undersized but athletically gifted 3-technique with untapped potential. His grades and win rates outshine his raw stats, suggesting NFL upside with better coaching. He’s quick off the ball and flashes disruptive ability, but his hand usage and pass-rush plan need significant refinement. Norman-Lott struggles against stronger linemen and can be moved in run defense. His athleticism makes him a developmental prospect for a penetrating defense.

• Strengths: Athletic upside, quick first step, high potential in pass rush.

• Weaknesses: Raw hand technique, struggles vs. power run game.

Deone Walker, DT, Kentucky

• Scouting Report: Walker (6’6″, 348 pounds) is a massive nose tackle with rare raw talent, drawing Dexter Lawrence comparisons. His 2023 stats (7.5 sacks, 12.5 TFLs) are edge-rusher-like, showcasing his ability to dominate at 0- or 1-tech. His size and explosiveness allow him to obliterate blocks, but inconsistent pad level and leverage issues limit his effectiveness. Walker’s versatility to play 3-tech or 5-tech adds value, but he’s a raw prospect needing technical polish.

• Strengths: Elite size, explosive power, high sack production, versatile alignment.

• Weaknesses: Poor pad level, raw technique, run-stopping needs refinement. Poor 2024 season.

This draft class is extremely deep, and my rankings don’t even include Joshua Farmer, CJ West, Jordan Phillips, and many others. This is a huge position of need for Miami and with recent events may not be covered in round 1. That being said the depth of this class plays to Miami’s needs and they will be able to find a day one starter at 48 and have a possibility of finding one at 98. I still would like to see Miami add another pick within the top 100 but that’s a topic for another article. Chris Grier has the opportunity to fill his holes in this roster, will he capitalize?

More Questions Than Answers: Decoding Chris Grier’s Puzzling Presser

A common theme with this Miami Dolphins regime is the inability to be straightforward and assuring. Often after press conferences, those who follow the Dolphins are left with more questions than answers. This whole offseason there have been murmurs of a big trade that the Dolphins will make, many of which pointed to Tyreek Hill, who has been a headache off the field. But while some were scrambling to file their taxes, the news broke that the Dolphins and Jalen Ramsey have “mutually agreed” to part ways.

This happens all the time in sports; players, agents, and front offices have disagreements over money or the little innuendos of NFL contracts. But in this case, once again, the Dolphins have seemed to make a simple situation more confusing, only leaving everyone to say, “Why?”

The Ramsey Riddle: A “Mutual” Departure That Raises Eyebrows

Miami Dolphins General Manager Chris Grier stepped up to the podium on Tuesday, April 15th, 2025, with a seemingly straightforward task: address the elephant in the room – the looming departure of star cornerback Jalen Ramsey. What transpired, however, was a press conference that left more questions swirling than answers provided, painting a picture of a team in flux and a front office navigating a potentially turbulent offseason.

Grier’s opening statement confirmed the news everyone anticipated: the Dolphins and Jalen Ramsey were parting ways. While he stated it was a mutual decision after weeks of internal discussions and conversations with Ramsey and his representation, the reasoning remained shrouded in ambiguity. “At the end of the day, Jalen did not ask for a trade,” Grier emphasized, adding that the decision was made after “numerous conversations” and a feeling that it was “best for the Miami Dolphins and for Jalen Ramsey.”

This carefully crafted statement, however, only deepened the mystery. If Ramsey didn’t want to leave and wasn’t seeking a bigger paycheck (a question Grier explicitly answered with a “No, he did not”), then what prompted this significant move? Grier remained tight-lipped, stating, “Really those discussions I’ll keep internally.” This lack of transparency immediately set the tone for a presser defined by what wasn’t said. Could this have been about scheme fit, locker room dynamics, or a future vision the team has that didn’t align with Ramsey’s long-term presence? The lack of clarity leaves fans and analysts to speculate.

Uncertainty in the Cornerback Room and Draft Strategy

The obvious follow-up question – whether the Dolphins expect to trade Ramsey before the draft – yielded an equally vague response. “I don’t know,” Grier admitted, highlighting the unpredictable nature of trades in the NFL timeline. This uncertainty leaves the Dolphins’ cornerback room in a precarious state heading into the draft, a position many already considered a significant need. Will the Dolphins be forced to prioritize cornerback early, potentially deviating from their “best player available” approach?

Adding to the intrigue was the revelation that the Dolphins opted against restructuring quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s contract to create cap space for bolstering the offensive and defensive lines. Grier’s explanation – “We decided we just felt we didn’t need to” – felt underwhelming, especially considering the team’s well-documented struggles in the trenches. He pointed to the signing of guard James Daniels and the perceived strength of the draft aligning with their needs, but this justification did little to quell concerns about potentially missed opportunities to improve key areas. Did the front office have concerns about the long-term implications of restructuring Tua’s deal, or do they genuinely believe the draft will adequately address their significant needs?

The Tyreek Hill Factor and Leadership Questions

As the press conference progressed, the underlying theme of unanswered questions persisted. When pressed on the timeline of the Ramsey decision, Grier suggested it was a long-term discussion, yet his free agency strategy didn’t overtly reflect the imminent departure of a player of Ramsey’s caliber. His acknowledgment that “it’s never easy to replace a player like Jalen” only underscored the perplexing nature of the situation.

The conversation then shifted to another prominent player, wide receiver Tyreek Hill, who has been the subject of both on-field brilliance and off-field concerns. Grier firmly stated that trading Hill was “not anything that we’re pursuing,” only to add the caveat of a hypothetical “two first-round picks” offer that would warrant consideration. While seemingly a standard GM response, it couldn’t entirely erase the lingering questions surrounding Hill, particularly in light of recent domestic incident police calls. Grier offered a brief statement aligning with the team’s official release, declining to delve into Hill’s personal life, leaving the public to wonder about the internal handling of the situation and its potential impact on team morale.

Perhaps the most telling exchange came when Grier was asked if the recent roster moves – the departure of Ramsey, the retirement of Terron Armstead, and the exit of Calais Campbell – signaled a “soft rebuild” or “reset.” His emphatic “No” was direct, but his insistence that the goal remains to “win, win this year and keep winning for sustained success in the future” felt somewhat at odds with the significant veteran talent departing the roster. The subsequent question about leadership in the locker room after losing multiple captains further highlighted this potential disconnect, leaving uncertainty about who will step up to fill those crucial roles.

Navigating the Draft with “Glaring Holes”

Grier’s answers regarding the team’s draft philosophy also raised eyebrows. While acknowledging the needs at cornerback, guard, and defensive tackle, he maintained a commitment to his ability to draft players at these positions, mentioning Xavien Howard, Christian Wilkins, Robert Hunt, and even Liam Eichenberg which is quite humorous. The good thing for Grier is that the draft’s strength aligns with their needs. His decisions will be closely scrutinized come draft night. Will the pressure to fill immediate needs outweigh the desire to draft the highest-rated player on their board, potentially leading to a reach?

A Decade of Learning and the Path Forward

In a moment of candid self-reflection, Grier discussed his decade of experience leading the Dolphins’ draft, admitting he’s not perfect and has learned to trust his instincts more while valuing the collaborative pushback from his coaching staff, particularly with Mike McDaniel. This admission of growth, however, does little to immediately alleviate the current cloud of uncertainty surrounding the team’s direction.

More Questions Than Answers Remain

Ultimately, Chris Grier’s press conference left Dolphins fans with a sense of unease and uncertainty. The departure of a star player in Jalen Ramsey without a clear explanation, coupled with a seemingly passive approach to addressing obvious roster needs in free agency, has created more questions than answers. As the draft looms, the pressure is undoubtedly mounting on Grier and the Dolphins’ front office to provide clarity and, more importantly, deliver on their stated goal of winning now and in the future. The engaging narrative that emerges from this presser is one of a team at a crossroads, with the next few weeks potentially defining their trajectory for the 2025 season and beyond. The answers, it seems, will have to come on the field.

Takeaway: The Silence Is Louder Than the Words

Chris Grier’s awkward, unconvincing presser says it all — the Miami Dolphins GM looks like a man grasping at straws.

His inability to confidently name leaders in the locker room was alarming. His words during the presser were anything but reassuring, leaving fans and players with more questions than answers. There’s a concerning lack of direction coming from the front office.

Let’s look at the facts:

• Jalen Ramsey is out the door — we just don’t know when. Grier admitted they’re “exploring options,” which means they’re already planning for life without one of their best defenders.

• Tyreek Hill is staying… for now. No restructure. No clarity. Just vague talk about letting it “play out.”

• Tua Tagovailoa’s contract wasn’t restructured either, a sign that the franchise is hesitant to fully commit — despite constant claims of “belief” in him.

• Patrick Paul is currently set to start at left tackle. A second-round rookie who didn’t even earn starting reps in minicamp is now being penciled in to protect Tua.

• “We want to win more than you guys.” Grier wants everyone to get off their back, a laughable statement.

This isn’t a rebuild. This isn’t an all-in push. This is confusion. Chaos disguised as cap strategy.

Chris Grier’s track record of dodging accountability continues, and if things go south early in the season, the fans won’t forget how this offseason felt — like a ship without a captain.

Who Will Fill the Leadership Void for the Miami Dolphins?

The Miami Dolphins have been gutted of veteran leadership this offseason. It’s not just the loss of talent — it’s the loss of the heart and voice in the locker room. In one offseason, the Dolphins parted ways with three of their most respected leaders: Terron Armstead, Calais Campbell, and Raheem Mostert. All three were recent recipients of the Dolphins’ “Good Guy” award, a testament to their impact beyond the field.

Armstead, who anchored the offensive line and mentored younger linemen, retired after a 12-year career. He was known for his steady presence and accountability. When things got tough, players looked to Armstead for guidance. His absence leaves a leadership hole up front that can’t be ignored.

Calais Campbell, described by Miami’s coaching staff as one of the best leaders in the entire league, left for Arizona. Even in his short stint with the Dolphins, Campbell’s impact was felt. He brought not just production but wisdom, experience, and an ability to command a room. Defensive line meetings won’t be the same without him.

Then there’s Raheem Mostert. He was a veteran who set the tone with his work ethic and determination, bouncing back from injuries to have some of the most productive years of his career in Miami. He wasn’t just a locker room favorite — he was proof of perseverance. His release strips the offense of a reliable voice and a proven veteran presence.

So now, the question: Who steps up?

Tyreek Hill (31)

Hill isn’t new to the Dolphins — this will be his fourth season in Miami — and while his explosive play has never been in doubt, leadership has been an evolving role for him. After a noisy offseason, including trade chatter (which could still occur), Hill returns with a chance to prove his maturity. Head coach Mike McDaniel has emphasized Hill’s importance, not just as a playmaker but as a tone-setter for the locker room. At 31, Hill knows the window for a Super Bowl is narrow. This is the time for him to lead by example — in preparation, performance, and keeping younger players locked in.

Jalen Ramsey (30)

Like Hill, Ramsey has been with the Dolphins long enough to command respect. Ramsey has always been confident, but in Miami, he’s embraced the role of veteran mentor, especially for the young defensive backs. With Campbell gone, Ramsey’s voice will carry even more weight on defense. Expect him to be a leader on the field and in every defensive meeting room.

Jordyn Brooks (27)

Brooks is coming off a standout first year with Miami, where he instantly became the heart of the defense. He filled the void left by Jerome Baker seamlessly, and his sideline-to-sideline presence energized the entire unit. Brooks doesn’t just make plays — he communicates, directs traffic, and holds teammates accountable. With Campbell out, Brooks will be critical in keeping the front seven organized, especially with new faces around him.

Zach Sieler (29)

Sieler is stepping into perhaps the most challenging leadership role on the team. With Campbell gone and Christian Wilkins departed last offseason, Sieler is the veteran anchor of a young and developing defensive line. He’ll be working alongside rookies and unproven players, and his experience will be vital in getting them up to speed. His play has always been reliable, but now he’ll need to bring an added layer of mentorship to stabilize the interior of the defense.

Jonnu Smith (29)

While tight ends often operate under the radar, Smith brings veteran experience and professionalism to the offensive meeting room. As a new addition, his leadership will be quieter at first, but with a young tight end group, his steady hand could prove valuable.

Tua Tagovailoa (27)

Lastly, it’s time for Tua to fully step into the role as the face of the franchise. He’s shown flashes of vocal leadership, and now with some of the old guard gone, there’s an expectation for him to own the huddle, the locker room, and the sideline. As the quarterback, he naturally holds sway, but it’s about commanding respect day in and day out.

Bottom Line

The Dolphins didn’t just lose players this offseason — they lost the voices that kept the team grounded. But they’re not left empty-handed. The leadership core is still there, and it’s time for veterans like Hill, Tua, Ramsey, Brooks, and Sieler to take ownership of this team’s identity. How they respond will define the Dolphins’ season, both in the win column and in the culture, they build moving forward. There are many others who can fill the leadership roles for this team, so the question is who do you think steps up as the leaders and captains of this team?

The Miami Dolphins recently lost Calais Campbell to the Arizona Cardinals. The place that Calais began his career and now he will get to end it there. There is no problem with Calais leaving as he has earned that right, yet for the Dolphins this is quite the problem. Since losing Christian Wilkins last off-season the Dolphins interior defensive line has been searching for Zach Seiler’s new tag team partner. Last season it was the late acquisition of Campbell that helped keep the unit afloat but now its Sieler and Benito Jones, not something Miami can go into the season with.

Dolphins’ Immediate Solution: Draft or Free Agency?

The Dolphins need someone capable of making an instant impact. The NFL Draft is a natural place to look, especially with such a deep class of defensive line talent available. There are currently options available in free agency and Miami could make a move similar to that of Calais Campbell but as I have discussed before and everyone knows, Grier and McDaniel need to win and win now, making this draft so important, especially in rebuilding the trenches.

Draft Strategy: Trade Back and Rebuild the Trenches

I’ll dive into this more in a later article, but one approach Miami should consider is trading back in the first round. This would allow them to acquire more picks in the top 100 and target multiple defensive line prospects, addressing a significant area of need, among others. The Dolphins currently have the 13th overall pick, and with the right trade scenario, they could add a few more picks within the top 100 to bolster the defensive front.

Miami’s Pre-Draft Visits Show Intent

Miami has already scheduled visits with the following defensive line prospects:

• Alfred Collins, Defensive Tackle, Texas

• Shemar Turner, Defensive Lineman, Texas A&M

• Kyonte Hamilton, Defensive Tackle, Rutgers

These visits show the Dolphins’ clear intention to address their defensive line depth in the upcoming draft.

2025 Miami Dolphins Draft Picks

• Round 1: 13th overall pick

• Round 2: 48th overall pick

• Round 3: 98th overall pick (Compensatory Selection)

• Round 4: 116th overall pick

• Round 4: 135th overall pick (Compensatory Selection)

• Round 5: 150th overall pick

• Round 5: 155th overall pick (via Denver)

• Round 7: 224th overall pick (via Chicago)

• Round 7: 231st overall pick

• Round 7: 253rd overall pick (Compensatory Selection)

Draft Options for the Dolphins’ Defensive Line

Round 1: Ideal Trade-Down Scenario

If Miami can trade down into the twenties, they would gain additional picks while still securing an impact defensive tackle. Here are three prime candidates for that strategy:

• Kenneth Grant (Michigan): Grant offers a rare blend of size and quickness. Known for his ability to dominate single blocks and stand strong against doubles, he could be an immediate starter in the interior defensive line.

• Walter Nolen (Mississippi): Nolen is one of the most physically gifted interior defenders in the draft. While his technique is still developing, he excels in run defense and offers versatility. With some polish, Nolen could become an immediate contributor with significant upside.

• Derrick Harmon (Oregon): Harmon showed consistent competitiveness and NFL-level quickness last season. His ability to play as a 3-technique defensive lineman makes him an intriguing prospect for the Dolphins.

Selecting either Grant, Nolen, or Harmon in a trade-down scenario would be a major win for the Dolphins, solving their immediate need for a strong interior defensive lineman.

Round 2: 48th Overall Pick

If Miami keeps its second-round pick, here are some options:

• Alfred Collins (Texas): Collins is a long and strong defensive lineman with versatility to play across the defensive front. While his pass-rush ceiling may be debated, his strength and flexibility make him a solid rotational player with starting potential.

• T.J. Sanders (South Carolina): Sanders is a quick, athletic 3-technique with a knack for disrupting plays. He needs to refine his hand usage and strength, but his raw potential could allow him to make an impact early.

Rounds 3 & 4: 98th, 116th, 135th Overall Picks

As the Dolphins move into the third and fourth rounds, there are still valuable options available:

• Omarr Norman-Lott (Tennessee): A gifted athlete, Norman-Lott is slightly undersized but offers upside as a 3-technique. With more development, he could evolve into a strong rotational player.

• Darius Alexander (Toledo): Alexander is a late bloomer with NFL-caliber strength and measurables. He could be a reliable contributor with starting potential.

• Shemar Turner (Texas A&M): Turner is a versatile defensive lineman who can play multiple spots. His active hands and relentless effort make him a solid Day 2 prospect.

Conclusion: The Stakes Are High

Miami has the chance to reshape its defensive line through the 2025 draft, but the pressure is on. Chris Grier must make the right moves in the trenches or face a difficult future in Miami. If the Dolphins fail to secure impact talent this April, the front office may find itself in a tough spot by 2026.