The Miami Dolphins are determined to change the narrative following their disappointing 2024 season that ended with an 8-9 record. Issues related to locker room culture, particularly chronic tardiness among players, have prompted head coach Mike McDaniel to emphasize accountability. Defensive tackle Zach Sieler and center Aaron Brewer are spearheading efforts to instill a stronger work ethic and commitment to punctuality as the team enters the offseason workouts.

Veteran leadership is crucial, especially with the recent departures of Terron Armstead and Calais Campbell, which the Dolphins will need to navigate. Rookies have been drafted, including offensive lineman Jonah Savaiinaea, and the team's focus is on setting a tone that fosters improvement. The presence of key players like quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and star wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle during off-season activities signals a collective effort toward a more disciplined and competitive environment.

The Miami Dolphins are facing urgent needs on their interior offensive line, highlighted by their struggles in 2024 where players like Aaron Brewer, Robert Jones, and Liam Eichenberg combined for nine sacks and numerous pressures. To improve their offensive output, targeting a middle-of-the-field weapon in the upcoming draft is essential. Tight ends like Colston Loveland and Tyler Warren could offer significant upgrades in their high-powered scheme.

The Dolphins, who missed the playoffs after a stellar 2023 season, need to rediscover their offensive explosiveness. With Tua Tagovailoa's injuries impacting performance, improving the supporting cast, especially on the offensive line, is critical. The recent signing of James Daniels addresses one issue, yet the team should continue to pursue further upgrades.

In addition to offensive improvements, the defense, which suffered from injuries, particularly with Jaelan Phillips' ACL tear, could benefit from draft picks that bolster their edge and interior positions. Miami’s strategy for the 2025 NFL Draft could involve moving up for a prospect like Will Campbell, or trading back to secure depth on the defensive line.

The Cincinnati Bengals are facing a pivotal offseason, particularly at the guard position, following the release of Alex Cappa. The team re-signed Cody Ford and retained Cordell Volson, who will be under competition for starting roles alongside veteran Lucas Patrick, signed to a one-year deal. Head coach Zac Taylor has hinted that the Bengals will look to the NFL Draft to address these needs and emphasize the importance of finding suitable linemen who can be developed over time, as they have struggled with the offensive line in recent years.

Despite Joe Burrow leading one of the NFL's most prolific passing offenses last season, the Bengals' interior protection has been a concern, especially with Burrow taking 48 sacks and facing significant pressure. Taylor is cautious about naming starters prior to the draft but anticipates bolstering the offensive line as a priority with six draft picks in hand.

The Miami Dolphins' running game faced significant challenges in short-yardage situations during the 2024 season, with a particularly poor performance on crucial third-and-1 and fourth-and-1 plays. The team completed only 11 of their 20 attempts on third-and-1, marking a success rate of 55%, which ranked among the worst in the NFL. Additionally, the Dolphins failed to convert any of their three fourth-and-1 attempts, joining a small group of teams struggling in this area.

This trend persisted from the previous season, where the Dolphins combined for a lackluster 7-for-14 conversion rate. Recognizing the need for improvement, head coach Mike McDaniel expressed a commitment to enhancing the team's physicality in short-yardage scenarios.

The Miami Dolphins secured a crucial victory against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 16, showcasing a revitalized running game led by De'Von Achane, who amassed 191 total yards.

Tyreek Hill contributed with a touchdown despite some drops, and Jason Sanders was perfect on five field goal attempts. The Dolphins' defense made key plays, including a pivotal interception by Kader Kohou, sealing the win in a game that highlighted both teams' struggles this season.