Are the Miami Dolphins Planning to Invest in Their Offensive and Defensive Lines During the Summer? Insights from Mike McDaniel on Free Agency Strategy

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Impulse shoppers, the Miami Dolphins are not.

It’s been five days now since Xavien Howard’s contract — and the $18.5 million cap charge that went with it — came off the books.

But the Dolphins have so far pocketed that money, and as head coach Mike McDaniel reiterated Thursday, they do not feel compelled to spend it — even if many on the outside wonder if they have enough talent in the trenches.

Will the Miami Dolphins Be Summer Spenders?

Depth on the interior offensive and defensive lines is, on paper, the biggest trouble spot on an otherwise excellent roster.

The Dolphins knew that no one player could replace defensive tackle Christian Wilkins or guard Robert Hunt — who both signed big-money free agent deals in March.

So they’ve tried to plug holes in volume, signing a slew of serviceable veterans at both positions, with the hope that a handful step up between now and opening day.

Spring practices have allowed the Dolphins to evaluate the roster they assembled this offseason. And based on word and deed, they like what they’ve seen.

“Like I’ve said before, you know Chris Grier’s always working and combing,” McDaniel said. “I am very happy with our current orchestration of both those units. The offensive line, there’s a little more history and experience, personally, with all the guys involved.

“On [the] defensive line, there’s more new, so the guys are working to get things tied together with the entire defense in that regard. The newer offensive linemen that we do have are working to master a new scheme.

“I’m very happy with the team. Open to competition. I think competition always breeds benefit for the Miami Dolphins, just because it brings the best out of people. So we’ll never shut the door on that. But I’m happy with the group’s production, how they’re working together, and happy with both depths.”

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In other words, it will probably take a major injury or a major steal for the Dolphins to feel the need to spend significant money on either spot.

Estimated Dolphins Depth Chart

Offensive Line

Projected Starters

• Terron Armstead (left tackle)
• Isaiah Wynn (left guard)
• Aaron Brewer (center)
• Liam Eichenberg (right guard)
• Austin Jackson (right tackle)

Likely Backups

• Kion Smith
• Robert Jones
• Lester Cotton
• Patrick Paul
• Jack Driscoll
• Kendall Lamm

Interior Defensive Line

Projected Starters

Likely Backups/Rotational Players

• Jonathan Harris
• Neville Gallimore
• Teair Tart
• Brandon Pili