Kendall Lamm, a former offensive lineman for the Miami Dolphins, has signed a one-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles as reported by Peter Schrager of NFL Network. Lamm, 32, who started his career on the Dolphins' practice squad in 2022, became a reliable backup in 2023, starting 15 games due to injuries to key players like Terron Armstead and Austin Jackson.

The Eagles are looking to bolster their offensive line, having lost important players to free agency. They signed Lamm in addition to Kenyon Green from the Houston Texans, aiming to maintain their competitive edge following their Super Bowl LIX victory, largely credited to their strong offensive front.

The Miami Dolphins have strategically cleared $7.77 million in salary cap space by restructuring Austin Jackson's contract. The right tackle's salary was converted into a signing bonus, allowing the team to manage its financial commitments more effectively. As Jackson, who has faced injury setbacks, continues to be a part of the Dolphins' offensive line, this move reinforces their commitment to retaining core players while maintaining flexibility in future transactions.

Jackson, a first-round pick in 2020, has shown versatility by playing multiple positions along the O-line, but has found a stable role at right tackle in recent seasons. After finishing on injured reserve in 2024, this new contract structure positions the Dolphins favorably as they eye potential roster enhancements with an estimated $18 million remaining in cap space.

The Miami Dolphins experienced a notable decline in their running game during the 2024 NFL season, dropping from first in the league in yards per attempt at 5.06 in 2023 to a disappointing 28th place at 4.01. This regression was notably marked by De'Von Achane, whose average fell from 7.8 to 4.5 yards per carry, showcasing a significant drop in performance. Additionally, Raheem Mostert faced a steep decline, with his rushing touchdowns plummeting from 18 to just 2, and a regression in his average yards per carry from 4.8 to 3.3.

Analyzing the underlying issues, metrics indicate that the offensive line struggled, ranking 22nd in rushing yards before contact at 2.3 yards per attempt. Furthermore, the Dolphins were near the bottom in broken tackles, with Mostert finishing last among all running backs with at least 50 carries. Injuries also played a role, particularly with Austin Jackson's absence impacting rushing performance significantly during the second half of the season.

The Miami Dolphins are facing a critical situation at their tackle positions as they prepare for a must-win game against the New York Jets. Right tackle Kendall Lamm has been placed on injured reserve, ending his season after stepping in for Austin Jackson. Left tackle Terron Armstead's availability is also uncertain due to recent injuries, raising concerns about the offensive line's stability.

In previous games without both Lamm and Armstead, rookie Patrick Paul and backup Jackson Carman filled the tackle spots, but Carman struggled against the Houston Texans, allowing two sacks on quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Offensive coordinator Frank Smith acknowledged the need for improvement from the offensive line and emphasized the importance of game experience for players like Carman.

The Dolphins are considering moving guards Isaiah Wynn or Liam Eichenberg to tackle if necessary. Additionally, they have signed tackle Braeden Daniels from the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad, who was a fourth-round pick by the Washington Commanders. His versatility is seen as an asset as the Dolphins navigate their tackle dilemma, especially with backup quarterback Tyler Huntley expected to start in place of Tagovailoa due to injury.

The Miami Dolphins once had a promising future highlighted by a remarkable 75-yard touchdown play by Tua Tagovailoa against the San Francisco 49ers two years ago. However, as the teams meet again, both are struggling with disappointing seasons, raising questions about the future of coach Mike McDaniel and general manager Chris Grier.

Despite McDaniel's innovative approach, the Dolphins' offense has regressed, showcasing a lack of downfield success and reliance on short passes. With a record of 6-8, the team faces scrutiny as they aim to salvage their season against the 49ers.