Smith steps in for an interior role; his protection and run discipline will matter as Miami leans on a quick-passing game to offset the line depth.

Dolphins’ right guard, part of a strong interior line; his matchup with Patriots’ interior pressure could shape Sunday’s up-front battles.

Expected to start at right guard vs New England with Daniels out; part of the depth rotation Miami will lean on during the four-game injury window.

Kion Smith, 26, fifth season with the Dolphins, has never started and has 10 games played. He stepped in at right guard Sunday when Daniels exited. Smith could be Miami’s Week 6 RG option if Daniels’ IR stint lingers, though his in-game role remains a major unknown.

Smith, with limited NFL experience (70 snaps in 2023), would be the likely Week 1 starter if Daniels is out, facing a difficult test against Buckner.