Dolphins Seek Stability on Offensive Line Amid Guard Shuffle
As the Miami Dolphins gear up for their Week 4 clash against the New York Jets on Monday night, the focus has shifted to the offensive line, particularly the right guard position. After a rocky performance last week, the Dolphins are exploring new options, including the intriguing addition of Cole Strange, a former first-round pick by the New England Patriots.
Emerging Contender for Right Guard
With Kion Smith and Daniel Brunskill both struggling, Strange’s arrival comes at a critical time. Signed off the Cleveland Browns’ practice squad over two weeks ago, he has made an impression in practice. Head coach Mike McDaniel noted Strange’s commitment to mastering the team’s techniques and fundamentals.
“He’s really attacked the technique and fundamentals that we use,” McDaniel remarked. “And he’s made himself part of the crew just by his buy-in and bold attack at the things that we do. So he’s had a good week.”
The Dolphins’ offensive line has faced significant challenges, and Strange’s performance in practice suggests he could be a viable option for the starting lineup against the Jets. Following a disappointing 31-21 loss to the Buffalo Bills, where both Smith and Brunskill struggled, Strange’s potential inclusion could provide a much-needed boost.
Strange’s Rocky Journey in the NFL
Strange’s path to the Dolphins has been anything but straightforward. Selected in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, he faced skepticism from analysts who believed he would have been better suited for a Day 2 selection. In his rookie season, he started at left guard, logging a career-high 982 snaps but struggled under pressure, allowing 23 quarterback pressures and five sacks.
The 2023 season proved to be even more challenging for Strange. He played just 564 snaps, giving up 22 pressures and two sacks before suffering a torn patellar tendon that sidelined him for a significant portion of the season. However, he rebounded in his final games with the Patriots, allowing just one pressure in 75 pass-blocking snaps before being released this summer.
Dolphins’ Offensive Line Challenges
The Dolphins’ offensive line issues are exacerbated by injuries, particularly the loss of veteran guard James Daniels, who was placed on injured reserve after a pec injury in the season opener. Offensive coordinator Frank Smith acknowledged the uphill battle the team faces without him.
“I think it’s just all overall, OK, you lose James early and you’re working through that process, hopefully to have him back at some point,” Smith explained. “And then ultimately, you’re working through all the scenarios that best put us in position.”
In addition to Daniels, right tackle Austin Jackson is also on IR with a toe injury. Both players could be eligible to return after the Week 5 game against the Carolina Panthers, but their timelines remain uncertain.
On the left side, rookie second-round pick Jonah Savaiinaea is experiencing growing pains, ranking last among all guards graded by Pro Football Focus. His struggles, coupled with Smith’s near-bottom ranking, have created a pressing need for the Dolphins to find the right combination along the offensive line.
As the Dolphins prepare for their matchup against the Jets, the stakes are high. With competition heating up for the right guard position and injuries affecting the lineup, the team’s ability to solidify its offensive front could prove crucial for their success moving forward.
