At the NFL owners’ meetings, Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel talked about a topic that’s been on everyone’s mind: the future of Liam Eichenberg. After re-signing him to a small deal, McDaniel explained why they brought him back and what his role will look like moving forward.
Eichenberg’s return has fans in a mixed bag. Some like his toughness and experience, others wonder if he can live up to the hype after struggling at times. McDaniel’s comments give clarity but also means competition for the starting guard spot.
Why the Dolphins Re-Signed Liam Eichenberg
McDaniel said Eichenberg’s re-signing wasn’t about guaranteeing him a starting role—it was about depth and value.
“Liam has taken some bullets and some losses,” McDaniel said. “But he’s a great teammate, added value and we’re happy to have him on the Dolphins. And for him to be a starter, he’s gonna’ have to be his best version of himself that he’s ever been.”
Eichenberg’s new deal—2.2 million with a cap hit of 1.3 million—is a depth player deal not a starter deal. The Dolphins took advantage of a salary cap loophole to keep a player who knows the system and has shown he can play through multiple shoulder injuries last season.
But McDaniel said Eichenberg’s return doesn’t mean he’s a lock to start opposite free agent addition James Daniels.
“We have the opportunity to create some more competition at a higher level than we’ve had in years past at that position,” McDaniel said. “It’s a priority for us.”
The Competition Ahead
The Dolphins are looking to shake up their offense—and that means Eichenberg will have to prove himself all over again. McDaniel hinted at a couple of ways that could play out.
One is free agency. They could still sign a veteran guard who’d push Eichenberg to be his best self. Or maybe even surpass him. That competition would be good for both players.
Miami has high picks in Rounds 1 or 2. That gives them the chance to target some talented young players like Will Campbell, Armand Membou or Kelvin Banks. Those guys could step right in and compete for a starting role.
McDaniel says that if Eichenberg is starting next year, it will be because he’s taken his game to new heights. And that’s exactly what the Dolphins want to see.
“Next year, Liam Eichenberg is going to have to be the best version of himself that we’ve ever seen,” McDaniel said. “And if he is, that’s great news for all of us.”
Fan Frustration and Symbolism Around Eichenberg
Eichenberg has been a lightning rod for fan criticism since being drafted. Some see his retention as a symbol of the team not addressing one of its biggest weaknesses – the interior OL. But McDaniel gets and appreciates the passion behind that frustration.
“I think overall it’s the nature of sports that you love and it’s emotionally draining at the same time,” McDaniel said. “I think they, the fans, want me, (GM) Chris Grier, we want to be right ultimately.”
McDaniel understands the fans but says the team’s decisions are about building the roster. Eichenberg’s experience, affordability and toughness make him a good backup plan even if he doesn’t win the job.
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