Now that the dust has settled on NFL free agency, the Miami Dolphins are left with a roster that reflects their patient approach to building for the future. They’ve addressed some key areas by re-signing core players and adding solid depth, but there are still holes to fill before the season starts. With 10 draft picks, including the 13th overall, the Dolphins can address those needs and set themselves up for 2025 and beyond.
1. Guard: A Problem That Can’t Wait
The Dolphins’ offensive line has been a problem for years and guard is still a major issue heading into 2025. Austin Jackson is locked in at right tackle and either Terron Armstead or Patrick Paul will play left tackle, but the interior of the line – particularly the guard spots – is a work in progress.
Miami made a couple of moves in free agency by signing Larry Borom and James Daniels, both of whom can compete for starting roles alongside re-signed guard Liam Eichenberg. But none of those guys are the long-term answer. The Dolphins need a plug and play starter who can be the anchor of the line for years to come.
Guard may not be the most glamorous position, but it’s a critical one for an offense that wants to protect Tua Tagovailoa and create running lanes for their talented backfield. If the Dolphins don’t find their answer in the draft, they’ll be stuck with the same problems they’ve had for years.
2. Defensive Tackle: Filling Big Shoes
With Calais Campbell thinking about retirement, the Dolphins have a hole at defensive tackle. Zach Sieler is solid on one side, but the team needs a complementary piece – especially if Campbell decides to retire.
Even if Campbell comes back for another season, the Dolphins should draft a young defensive tackle to fill his shoes. Ideally, this player would be a run stuffer and pass rusher and help elevate the front seven.
Free agent addition Benito Jones will likely play nose tackle, but finding a dynamic player next to Sieler is key to the defensive line. This could be a need that pushes the Dolphins to take a defensive tackle early in the draft.
3. Cornerback: Who Will Start Opposite Jalen Ramsey?
Jalen Ramsey locks down one side of the secondary, but who starts opposite him—and who plays nickel? The Dolphins brought in Artie Burns in free agency, while tendered cornerback Kader Kohou is a versatile option. But neither is a clear answer for the starting lineup.
Second-year pro Storm Duck and third-year player Cam Smith round out the depth chart, but neither has proven themselves as a starter. Adding a high-end cornerback in the draft would give Kohou a chance to thrive in his natural role as a nickel defender.
Cornerback is a premium position in today’s NFL and not addressing it could leave the Dolphins vulnerable to elite passing attacks. There’s plenty of talent in this year’s draft class, Miami must prioritize the secondary.
4. Wide Receiver: Speed Meets Size
The Dolphins’ offense is built around speed, but what happens when defenses shut down the deep threats? To evolve the offense, Miami needs to add a big-bodied wide receiver who can win contested catches and be a reliable target in the red zone.
Players like Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill stretch defenses vertically, but a possession receiver would give Tagovailoa another weapon to go to in crunch time. Tight end Jonnu Smith and running back De’Von Achane contribute to the passing game, but a true X-receiver or slot option would take the offense to the next level.
For those who think wide receiver isn’t a need, consider this: every championship team has multiple weapons on offense. Miami can build a more balanced and unpredictable offense by addressing this need in the draft.
5. Safety: Replacing Jevon Holland
Losing Jevon Holland to the New York Giants leaves a huge hole in the secondary. While the Dolphins signed Ifeatu Melifonwu and Ashtyn Davis to the safety room, they still don’t have a clear starter to pair with either of those players—or even Elijah Campbell who rounds out the depth chart.
Drafting a young, athletic safety would help stabilize the back end of the defense. Free agents provide some flexibility, but investing in a rookie who can grow into a leadership role makes sense for a team looking for continuity.
Honorable Mention: Running Back—a Luxury
The Dolphins already have a dynamic duo in Raheem Mostert and Alexander Mattison, but a power back could add a new wrinkle in short yardage situations. Players like Cameron Skattebo from Arizona State bring physicality and toughness—traits that would complement Mostert’s speed and Mattison’s versatility.
Some will say running back isn’t a need, but having a thumper could pay off in goal line situations and late game grinds. If drafted in the later rounds this wouldn’t cost much draft capital but would make an impact on the field.
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