Should the Miami Dolphins Select a Guard in the First Round of the 2025 NFL Draft?
The Miami Dolphins enter the 2025 NFL Draft facing a pivotal decision: should they use their first-round pick to address their interior offensive line by selecting a guard? The Dolphins have been a team on the cusp of serious playoff contention but have faced persistent issues with offensive line play, particularly at the guard positions. With an aging and often-injured Terron Armstead at left tackle and continued uncertainty at right tackle, fortifying the interior could prove vital for both pass protection and run-blocking efficiency.
Evaluating the Dolphins’ Current Offensive Line Situation
Miami’s offensive line struggles have been well-documented in recent seasons. Despite some investment in free agency and the draft, the unit has failed to provide consistent protection for quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. While the Dolphins have some solid pieces, such as center Connor Williams and right tackle Austin Jackson, their guard play has been inconsistent at best.
In the 2024 season, Miami relied on a combination of Robert Hunt and Liam Eichenberg at guard, but neither provided the level of stability required for a Super Bowl-caliber team. Hunt has since departed in free agency, leaving a major void. The team signed veteran stopgaps, but none offer long-term solutions. Given the Dolphins’ heavy investment in their skill positions and the need to maximize Tagovailoa’s efficiency, improving the offensive line should be a top priority.
The Importance of Guard Play in Miami’s Offense
Head coach Mike McDaniel’s offensive system, which is heavily influenced by the Shanahan-style outside zone running scheme, places a high value on athletic, technically sound interior linemen who can move well in space. Guards in this system must be able to effectively reach second-level defenders, sustain blocks, and protect the quarterback in play-action-heavy sets.
Poor guard play can significantly disrupt Miami’s offensive flow. In 2024, the Dolphins struggled in short-yardage situations, ranking near the bottom of the league in third-and-short conversion rates. An upgraded interior line would improve both the run game and allow Tagovailoa to operate more comfortably in the pocket, reducing the risk of injury.
Potential First-Round Guard Prospects
Several highly regarded guard prospects could be available when Miami selects in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Some of the most notable names include:
- Dylan Fairchild (Georgia) – Fairchild is a prototypical zone-blocking guard with excellent mobility and footwork. At 6’5” and 315 pounds, he has the size and athleticism necessary for Miami’s scheme. While he sometimes struggles with leverage, his upside as a high-end pass protector makes him an attractive option.
- Miles Frazier (LSU) – One of the standouts from the 2025 Senior Bowl, Frazier showcased strong hands and an aggressive blocking style that could translate well to the NFL. His ability to move defenders in the run game would help Miami’s ground attack significantly.
- Zak Zinter (Michigan) – Zinter brings power and toughness, excelling in both run blocking and pass protection. His experience in Michigan’s pro-style system makes him one of the most NFL-ready guards in the draft.
Should Miami Use a First-Round Pick on a Guard?
The decision to draft a guard in the first round hinges on multiple factors, including the depth of talent at other positions of need and the overall strength of the draft class. While offensive line is a clear priority, the Dolphins must also consider their needs in areas such as edge rusher, linebacker, and cornerback.
The 2025 draft class is considered deep at several positions, meaning Miami might be able to find starting-caliber guards in the second or third rounds. If the Dolphins have a chance to draft an elite pass rusher or shutdown corner, they may opt to address guard later in the draft. However, if a top-tier guard prospect is available, securing a long-term solution on the interior could be the best move.
Alternative Strategies
If Miami decides against selecting a guard in the first round, they could explore other options such as:
- Trading Down – Accumulating more picks could allow them to draft a high-upside guard in the second round while also filling other needs.
- Signing a Veteran – Free agency could offer experienced options to bridge the gap until a younger player develops.
- Drafting a Versatile Lineman – Selecting a tackle or center with the ability to play guard could provide flexibility and depth.