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Dolphins Get Positive Update on Top Offseason Addition

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nelson Hubbell | Last updated Jun 11, 2025 5:20 PM ET

The Miami Dolphins are hoping to get a key offseason addition back in time for the start of the regular season.

Offensive guard James Daniels, who just signed a contract worth $24 million over three years, is working his way back from an Achilles tear last season with the Steelers.

According to Joe Schad of the Palm Beach Post, Daniels recently met with the media, giving a positive update about where he is in recovering from the injury.

"I'm right on the progression," Daniels said.

But with questions about the 27-year-old's availability to start the season, what does that progression look like at this point?

"Trying to ramp up. I'll rehab, work out, spend time with like my wife and my cats," Daniels said.

The former Bears' 2018 second-round pick out of Iowa tore his left Achilles tendon pass blocking on September 29th of last year when the Steelers played the Indianapolis Colts. A full return to play can take 11-12 months, which puts Daniels' availability in doubt.

An ideal timetable of 11 months places the lineman's return at roughly a week before the season begins.

If Daniels is not ready, expect rookie Jonah Savaiinaea to play left guard, while Liam Eichenberg slides into right.

But Daniels says that he and Savaiinaea are open to playing either spot when the veteran returns.

"I think he's good," Daniels said of the rookie. "He's always texting me, he's always texting other players asking for advice. He's always working after practice, so I'm pretty excited to see his development."

The Dolphins are hoping those two new additions give the critical boost this offensive line needs to protect quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and improve the team's rushing attack.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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