Three Position Groups The Dolphins Must Build Around

To say Miami’s run defense was bad is putting it mildly. The Dolphins finished the 2025 season ranked 24th in run defense, but there was a time during the season where their run defense was downright awful. They gave up 100+ yards in each of the first seven games, including a Rico Dowdle-led 239 yard performance against Carolina. After the Dolphins released Bradley Chubb, All-Pro Jordyn Brooks needs some help at the second level. They don’t need big-name guys, but solid contributors that make good depth pieces.

Free Agents Targets:

• Devin Bush, LB from CLE
• Boye Mafe, EDGE from SEA
• Rashan Gary, LB from GB

Draft Targets:

• Jake Golday, LB from Cincinnati
• Akheem Mesidor, EDGE from Miami
• Gabe Jacas, LB from Illinois

Gary’s complicated day could mean Green Bay is looking to trade the edge rusher. He’d fill the departed-Chubb’s role nicely. Not only is he familiar with Hafley’s coaching, Gary’s been consistently pressuring quarterbacks the last two years, tallying 7.5 sacks in 2024 and 2025. The 28-year old could provide key quarterback pressures while young Edge Chop Robinson develops.

2. Offensive Line

According to Pro Football Reference, Miami’s offensive line ranked 29th out of 32 teams. They have key pieces in Aaron Brewer and Patrick Paul, but the Dolphins released embattled Guard Liam Eichenberg–and since Terron Armststead announced his retirement in 2025, Miami’s been in search of a good blindside blocker. Cole Strange is a decent guard in his own right. Jonah Savaiinaea is full of potential but needs to find his footing. Nevertheless, an investment in the future means an investment in the trenches.

Since Miami’s hellbent on bringing in former Packers staff, another key edition to bolster their offensive line could be bringing in Packers Tackle Rasheed Walker. In 989 snaps, Walker allowed 5 sacks with 9 penalties in 2025. Walker’s only 26; if this is his peak, he’ll be a good edge blocker alongside Austin Jackson (if Jackson can stay healthy).

Free Agent Targets:

• Rasheed Walker, OT from GB
• David Edwards, OG from BUF
• Isaac Seumalo, OG from PIT

Draft Targets:

• Caleb Lomu, OT from Utah
• Francis Mauigoa, OT from Miami
• Monroe Feeling, OT from Georgia

3. Secondary

Miami’s secondary relied on the veteran presence of Rasul Douglas, Jack Jones, and Minkah Fitzpatrick–and for what it’s worth? All three proved their worth last season (Jones was inconsistent, but Hafley’s defense could change that). Rumblings that Fitzpatrick might be moved or released here shortly could mean Miami’s looking to fill the void he leaves. If Miami loses Fitzpatrick, Caleb Downs is worth taking in the First Round.

Downs is a high-motor talent that can improve Miami’s run and pass defense. A strong cover defender in both man and zone, what Downs lacks in speed he makes up for with intelligence. Charles Davis had the Dolphins taking him with their 11th overall pick in February. My hope is that Miami keeps Fitzpatrick and Downs teams up with him, but one can only dream.

Free Agent Targets

• Alontae Taylor, CB from NO
• Greg Newsome II, CB from JAX
• Nick Cross, S from IND

Draft Targets

• Caleb Downs, S from Ohio State
• Colton Hood, CB from Tennessee
• Treydan Stukes, CB from Arizona

End of My Dolphins’ Rant

It’s going to be a long process before Miami’s a serious playoff contender. By investing in these three position groups, the Dolphins can expedite their playoff hopes and hopefully build a culture of long-term success.