Miami's right side is in flux as Austin Jackson lands on IR and James Daniels joins him, forcing a reshaped O-line for at least four games. Borom steps in at right tackle with Kion Smith sliding to right guard; Strange, Brunskill or Lamm may inherit later opportunities. Waller remains in the lineup with a two-TE look, and Wilson Jr. plus Patterson get practice-squad elevations to stay ready. Cornell Armstrong moves up to fifth cornerback as Bonner sits, while Wright is doubtful and Waller stays active.

Depth and tempo become the x-factors: the Dolphins will lean on internal depth, situational protection schemes, and occasional run-game adjustments against a brutal early schedule (Patriots, Bills, Jets, Panthers). The earliest Jackson or Daniels could return is Week 6 vs Chargers, giving Miami a light at the end of the tunnel as Eichenberg works off PUP. Fantasy angles hinge on who seizes the opportunistic reps along the line and how the TE and RB options are deployed in the shift.

Miami faces a bruising Week 2 test vs. New England with a slew of practice absences. Six Dolphins — Storm Duck, Austin Jackson, Benito Jones, Darren Waller, Ethan Bonner, and Jaylen Wright — missed practice, while Jaylen Waddle remained limited with a shoulder. De'Von Achane and Tyreek Hill both cleared, and Zeek Biggers could see action if Jones can’t go. New England’s report included Christian Gonzalez, Harold Landry III, Morgan Moses, Keion White, Kayshon Boutte, Christian Elliss, and Marte Mapu as limited or missing. Fantasy impact centers on Hill’s volatility, Waddle’s health, Achane’s workload, and the rookie Biggers stepping in—plus how Gonzalez’s absence could widen targets for the Pats’ pass game.

In short, Week 2 leans toward stabilized star production from Hill, with Waddle’s status a key ceiling driver. The Patriots bring attention to Boutte and White as potential value if misses mount, while Miami’s depth will be put to the test at corner, tackle, and interior D-line. Streaming defenses and opportunistic plays could define a close divisional tilt.

The Miami Dolphins are gearing up for a busy offseason, focusing on the defensive line amid looming veteran departures. With key players like Calais Campbell, Da'Shawn Hand, and Benito Jones set to hit unrestricted free agency, finding effective replacements is crucial. Last year, the Dolphins faced a similar challenge, losing Christian Wilkins and Raekwon Davis, which led them to sign Campbell and Jones. This year, they are reportedly eyeing Milton Williams, a standout from the Philadelphia Eagles, who recorded five sacks last season.

There’s a backstory to Williams; the Dolphins initially pursued a trade for him in 2023, only to be rebuffed by the Eagles. Notably, Vic Fangio, the Dolphins' then-defensive coordinator, was a proponent of the move. However, with Fangio now working with Williams in Philadelphia, the Dolphins may find it challenging to acquire him given the Eagles’ desire to retain their promising talent and financial constraints in Miami.

The Miami Dolphins are considering Georgia safety Malaki Starks as a possible pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, but they have larger needs to address with their 13th overall selection. The focus should be on bolstering the offensive and defensive lines, rather than reaching for a safety. The team has struggled with tough yards, indicating a pressing need for offensive linemen. The defensive line also needs reinforcement, especially with multiple key players potentially hitting free agency.

Examining recent playoff performances highlights the importance of dominating the trenches. Both the NFC and AFC Championship games showcased how pivotal line play is for success. The Dolphins should aim to replicate successful past picks, like Christian Wilkins, to shape a more robust roster. While safety depth poses a concern, the team must prioritize positions that significantly influence the game’s outcome.