Dolphins' O-line Holds Key to Offensive Success

A lot of attention has been paid to Malik Willis entering training camp.

Deservingly so, but the Miami Dolphins' offensive line could determine the team's success — or lack thereof — in 2026.

“We want the offensive line to be the forefront of this team, the identity. It's kind of establish the run and that could go for anything,” Dolphins left tackle Patrick Paul said in May. “Just establishing the foundation of things and want them to be able to lean on us and us be the strong unit for this team.”

De’Von Achane is coming off a career year after rushing for 1,350 yards and eight touchdowns. But there will be quite a few changes among the players protecting Achane this season.

Kadyn Proctor, who was selected 12th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, will be the Dolphins’ left guard. He played left tackle at Alabama, but Miami wants to get its best players on the field at the same time, which is why Proctor will move inside.

Jonah Savaiinaea, who was Miami’s left guard last season, will switch to right guard after struggling as a rookie. He allowed eight sacks and committed five penalties in 982 snaps. Right guard is where Savaiinaea played in college at Arizona, and the Dolphins hope he can make a significant improvement by returning to his natural position.

Paul, who delivered a breakout sophomore season, and second-team All-Pro center Aaron Brewer return and will anchor Miami’s offensive line. But can Austin Jackson remain on the field and return to the form that earned him a three-year, $36 million contract extension in 2023?

From the moment he inked that extension, Jackson has had difficulty staying healthy. He has missed 20 games over the past two seasons.

In March, Jackson agreed to a one-year, $7 million restructured contract that includes $5.475 million fully guaranteed. With him entering the final year of his deal, the pressure is mounting because many believe Proctor is the Dolphins’ right tackle of the future.

Willis’ play may determine the Dolphins' success. But the offensive line will represent the foundation of the team's identity, as Miami wants to play a gritty, physical brand of football.