The Miami Dolphins pulled off a big move in the 2025 NFL Draft, stealing offensive lineman Jonah Savaiinaea from the New England Patriots. The Dolphins’ trade up to 37 overall left the Patriots scrambling and showed just how high Savaiinaea was on the board heading into Day 2.
The Patriots’ Plan Foiled
According to Patriots exec Eliot Wolf, the team was debating who to take with their 38th overall pick. “Ultimately, one of the players we were talking about got drafted so it didn’t matter,” Wolf said after Day 2.
Longtime Patriots reporter Greg Bedard said on his podcast that the player they were targeting was Arizona’s guard/tackle Jonah Savaiinaea. “He was the guy,” Bedard said. “And the Dolphins just happened to jump in front of the Patriots and send a third round pick to the Raiders. They jumped ahead and took him.”
With Savaiinaea off the board, the Patriots went with running back TreVeyon Henderson at 38 overall. Later in the night, they took center Jared Wilson at 95 overall to add to their OL through another route.
Dolphins’ Bold Move Pays Off
To get the No. 37 pick, the Dolphins gave up a lot of capital, trading away picks 48, 98, and 135 in Rounds 2, 3 and 4. In return they got a 5th round compensatory pick (143). Miami didn’t have another pick until Day 3 but they got an impact offensive lineman in Savaiinaea.
Offensive linemen were flying off the board in Round 2 with only 2 being taken in the first 20 picks after 8 went in Round 1. The Dolphins timed their move perfectly and got one of the top remaining prospects at a critical position.
Why Savaiinaea Was Worth the Trade?
Savaiinaea’s versatility as a guard and tackle made him attractive to teams looking to solidify their lines. His ability to play multiple positions gives coaches flexibility in scheme design and depth management. For the Dolphins whose line struggled last season, investing big in Savaiinaea means they are committed to protecting Tua and creating run blocking opportunities.
Meanwhile the Patriots couldn’t get Savaiinaea so they had to pivot and add weapons to their offense with Henderson and reinforce the interior line later with Wilson.
What This Means Moving Forward?
For the Dolphins, if Savaiinaea pans out he could be a game changer. He can be their anchor for years to come, provide stability and open up lanes for their run game. But the cost of 3 high picks means they need him to contribute right away to justify the investment.
For the Patriots, missing out on Savaiinaea might sting in the short term but their contingency plan shows they are focused on building a well rounded roster. Whether Henderson can be a dynamic back and Wilson can stabilize their line will determine if their pivot works.
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