Dolphins’ OL Depth To Provide Intriguing Roster Choices

According to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald, sixth-round Texas rookie DJ Campbell is likely a lock to secure a roster spot, and a backup center — whether that ends up being 2024 undrafted signee Andrew Meyer, undrafted Iowa State rookie Jim Bonifas, or some unknown future addition — will likely lock up another. Even if Savaiinaea isn’t able to hold on to his starting role, the team isn’t likely to give up on last year’s second-round pick. That makes seven slots taken out of an expected nine or 10, per Jackson.

Concerning the remaining two or three roster spots, Jackson expects the Dolphins to retain two backup tackles. He notes free agent addition Jamaree Salyer as a strong candidate to grab one spot. A former starting lineman for the Chargers, Salyer has unique experience at both guard and tackle, versatility that could prove very valuable as a backup weapon on the line. Jackson offers up veteran Charlie Heck as another strong tackle candidate who has part-time starting experience with both the Texans and the Buccaneers.

There’s another interesting name that’s in the mix for a roster spot, though they may not have the best odds to win it. Per Jackson, the Dolphins have been auditioning former Packers defensive lineman James Ester on the interior offensive line. Apparently, Miami’s Green Bay transplants at general manager and head coach, Jon-Eric Sullivan and Jeff Hafley, witnessed Ester work at guard on the Packers’ practice squad and thought he had the “power, movement skills, strength, and athleticism” to potentially succeed at guard.

At 289 pounds, the Northern Illinois-product is a bit undersized for an NFL guard, but there’s no 300-pound weight requirement for the offensive line, and Brewer has found success at center at 295 pounds. Ester has plenty of competition for a roster spot and is likely at a disadvantage due to his lack of experience, but if Sullivan and Hafley believe in him, their favor may give him the edge over more experienced candidates.