The Miami Dolphins are considering Georgia safety Malaki Starks as a possible pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, but they have larger needs to address with their 13th overall selection. The focus should be on bolstering the offensive and defensive lines, rather than reaching for a safety. The team has struggled with tough yards, indicating a pressing need for offensive linemen. The defensive line also needs reinforcement, especially with multiple key players potentially hitting free agency.

Examining recent playoff performances highlights the importance of dominating the trenches. Both the NFC and AFC Championship games showcased how pivotal line play is for success. The Dolphins should aim to replicate successful past picks, like Christian Wilkins, to shape a more robust roster. While safety depth poses a concern, the team must prioritize positions that significantly influence the game’s outcome.

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt will miss the 2024 NFL Pro Bowl Games due to injury, marking the first time in his career he won't participate after being selected in every season since his rookie year. The announcement confirmed that Baltimore Ravens linebacker Kyle Van Noy will take his place. Watt, a finalist for the Defensive Player of the Year award, had an impressive season, recording 61 tackles, 11.5 sacks, and a league-high six forced fumbles among other stats. Despite his injuries at the season's end, both ankle and thumb are not considered serious, allowing him to focus on rehabilitation during the offseason.

Watt's continuous dominance has earned him seven consecutive Pro Bowl selections, along with six All-Pro selections, showcasing his impact in the league. He was joined in the Pro Bowl roster by teammates Chris Boswell, Cam Heyward, and Minkah Fitzpatrick, while special teams player Mile Killebrew was named an alternative. While Watt takes time to recover, his extraordinary performance ensures he remains a key figure in Steelers' plans for the upcoming season.

The Miami Dolphins have made notable strides in recent drafts, with their first-round selection in 2024, Chop Robinson, being named to the PFWA All-Rookie team. As they prepare for the 2025 draft, speculation is rife regarding whether they will opt for another defensive player. Current mock drafts, including one from Sports Illustrated, suggest that safety Malaki Starks from Georgia could be their target, addressing significant needs in the defensive backfield, particularly with Jevon Holland potentially entering free agency.

The Dolphins' draft history shows a precedent for selecting safeties; they previously took Minkah Fitzpatrick in 2018, who has since become an All-Pro. Alongside Starks, the upcoming draft presents an opportunity to bolster their defense further, especially with several key position players potentially leaving the team.

The Houston Texans have waived receiver Diontae Johnson after a disappointing tenure following his acquisition to strengthen their receiving corps. Johnson's short stint included participation in just two games, where he managed a mere catch for 12 yards in the playoff win against the Chargers. His evident frustration in the locker room post-game signaled the end of his time with the team.

This marks a troubling trajectory for Johnson, who has been released by four teams in the last year. His tenure with the Steelers ended acrimoniously, featuring sideline disputes with head coach Mike Tomlin and altercations with teammates. His lack of effort was highlighted by an infamous moment where he disregarded a fumble during a game.

After being traded to the Panthers from Pittsburgh, where he expressed a desire for a fresh start, Johnson had minimal success in Carolina, catching just 30 passes. His subsequent move to the Baltimore Ravens was similarly unproductive, culminating in a suspension for refusing to enter a game. Despite hopes from the Texans, Johnson's frustrations continued, leading to his release.

The Pittsburgh Steelers' season concluded with a 28-14 defeat against the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC wild-card round, marking a disappointing sixth consecutive playoff loss. A clear issue emerged: head coach Mike Tomlin's apparent disconnect with the team during a season that started with promise. Players like linebacker Patrick Queen and receiver George Pickens voiced concerns about complacency and a lack of optimism, respectively, indicating deeper cultural issues within the organization.

Despite a strong start in the season, the Steelers lacked a clear identity, especially after switching quarterbacks. The defensive unit, which had been the most expensive in the league, faltered significantly down the stretch, allowing a staggering 299 rushing yards in the playoff game. Tomlin's coaching decisions are under scrutiny, particularly regarding the team's failure to adapt during critical moments.