The Miami Dolphins' struggles in the 2024 NFL season have been laid bare as analysis highlights key issues, particularly with the offensive line. Ranked 28th in pass blocking and 26th in run blocking, the offensive line has been a significant liability, leading the league in holding penalties. The absence of Tua Tagovailoa severely impacted the Dolphins’ offensive output, which plummeted to last place in yards per play without him. Conversely, the defense showcased strength, allowing the least yards before contact per carry, largely thanks to standout performances from players like Zach Sieler and cornerback Kader Kohou. As the team gears up for the draft, the urgency to bolster the offensive line and retain key defensive talents is clear.

With the departures of veteran leaders Calais Campbell and Terron Armstead, the Miami Dolphins face a critical period of transition. This leadership void leaves the team looking toward players like Tua Tagovailoa, Alec Ingold, and Zach Sieler to step up in 2025. Tagovailoa, as the franchise quarterback, is expected to take charge, while Ingold and Sieler provide steady, veteran voices. The offensive line particularly needs a new leader following Armstead's retirement, and players like Austin Jackson and Aaron Brewer are in the spotlight to fill that role.

Campbell and Armstead's significant experience cannot be underestimated; both were immediate captains upon their arrival, showcasing their impact in the locker room. As Miami prepares for the future, the groundwork laid by these veterans must be nurtured to foster a new generation of leaders. The Dolphins aim to not just maintain continuity but to build an explosive team capable of winning, starting with establishing strong leadership.

The Miami Dolphins are entering the post-free agency period with key questions looming over their defensive tackle and cornerback positions. With the exit of veteran leader Calais Campbell to the Arizona Cardinals, the team is left with Zach Sieler and re-signed nose tackle Benito Jones. However, the depth behind them includes unproven talents, raising questions about their ability to compete effectively. Coach Mike McDaniel remains optimistic, hinting that the upcoming draft will allow the team to infuse youth and talent into the defensive line.

In the secondary, the Dolphins have opened a starting cornerback spot after releasing Kendall Fuller. While Jalen Ramsey provides a versatile option, the team is taking a close look at players like Kader Kohou and potential draftees such as Michigan’s Will Johnson. The blend of competition and upcoming draft choices suggests that the Dolphins might be poised to reshape their defense effectively—if they can find the right fits.

The Miami Dolphins are making strides in addressing their roster weaknesses, particularly in free agency. However, they faced a significant loss when defensive tackle Da'Shawn Hand finalized a contract with the Los Angeles Chargers, marking a pivotal change in their defensive lineup. Hand, who previously showcased his skills in Miami, was instrumental in their defensive strategies during the last season, contributing to both the defensive line and special teams with a career-high of 31 tackles and key plays throughout the year.

Despite Hand's departure, the Dolphins still possess solid foundational players in Zach Sieler, who has proven to be a formidable force in both pass rushing and run defense. The team is also monitoring veteran Calais Campbell's intentions for the upcoming season as they seek to bolster their defensive front through the draft. With 11 picks in the upcoming draft, Miami has the opportunity to inject new talent into the defense, ideally complementing their existing core and addressing any gaps left by Hand's exit.

As the NFL free agency period opens, the Miami Dolphins made a strategic move by re-signing defensive tackle Matt Dickerson. This follows his mid-season addition to the practice squad last year, where he eventually made it to the active roster for the last four games. At 29, Dickerson is expected to bring depth and competition to the Dolphins' defensive line, which will be led by Zach Sieler.

Despite being a lesser-known signing, Dickerson’s experience in 40 NFL games since 2018, including a Super Bowl victory with the Kansas City Chiefs, enhances his profile. The Dolphins are also looking at their free agents, like Calais Campbell and Da'Shawn Hand, to bolster their defensive front.