Miami Dolphins general manager Chris Grier wrapped up the 2024 NFL Draft by selecting seven rookies and adding more in the early stages of undrafted free agency.
While some of these picks are primed for long, successful careers with the Dolphins, the team still has work to do to contend in a crowded AFC.
All of that and more in today’s Dolphins news!
Miami Dolphins News Today
Rookie OT Patrick Paul Is Set Up To Succeed With Miami Dolphins
In the second round of the NFL Draft, the Dolphins drafted Houston offensive tackle Patrick Paul, who is considered a bit of a project with boundless upside.
While some contending teams could be hesitant to take a Round 2 flier on a project, the Dolphins are perfectly equipped with a mentorship staff in-house. That mentorship will likely come from Austin Jackson.
While Jackson is only three years older than Paul, he has a plethora of NFL starting experience, paving the way for Miami’s offense these last four seasons and starting in 46 of his 48 career games. Jackson signed a three-year, $36 million extension earlier this offseason, making him a mainstay on this offensive line.
Paul was likely drafted to replace Terron Armstead, who will turn 33 years old before the season begins. Fostering a relationship with Jackson makes sense, as they are the future of Miami’s unit up front.
READ MORE: Patrick Paul Is Set Up To Succeed With Miami Dolphins
Guard Named Position of Need After NFL Draft
Losing starting guard Robert Hunt in free agency was always going to create a big hole to fill. But after many draft analysts had interior offensive line as a priority for Miami in the NFL Draft, the Dolphins did not address it.
Subsequently, guard was named the biggest position of need for Miami following the event.
The Dolphins re-signed Isaiah Wynn and added veteran Jack Driscoll, but they don’t have a long-term solution on the interior.
KEEP READING: NFL Roster Weaknesses — Each Team’s Biggest Need After Draft, Free Agency
Zach Sieler ‘Heartbroken’ About Losing Christian Wilkins in Free Agency
Losing Christian Wilkins put a big hole in Miami’s defensive front, but it also put a big hole in the heart of his close friend Zach Sieler.
Wilkins and Sieler fostered a close friendship during their time with the Dolphins. This was showcased on HBO’s “Hard Knocks” when nobody was more excited than Wilkins when Sieler signed his three-year extension, even if it meant he would likely be leaving town.
Sieler said his wife, Hannah, was “super heartbroken, too” when learning the news of Wilkins signing with the Las Vegas Raiders in free agency.
Now, Sieler is the highest-paid member of Miami’s defensive line and also one of its most tenured veteran options.
CONTINUE READING: ‘Heartbroken’ Miami Dolphins DT Zach Sieler on Life After Christian Wilkins