Miami Dolphins Must Be Tougher, More Physical: 3 Key Signings to Help Achieve That Goal
In the fast-paced world of the NFL, a team’s toughness and physicality are often the defining traits that set championship contenders apart from the rest of the league. For the Miami Dolphins, a franchise that has seen its fair share of highs and lows over the years, the need to get tougher and more physical has become a key point of emphasis as they look to return to prominence in the AFC East and beyond. After a season that exposed some weaknesses in both the offensive and defensive trenches, the Dolphins front office made it clear that improving the team’s physicality would be one of their top priorities.
To help address this need for increased toughness, the Dolphins made some strategic signings, bringing in players who embody the kind of grit, strength, and tenacity the team needs to compete at a higher level. These three key acquisitions are expected to help Miami improve in areas where they have been lacking, from the offensive line to the defensive front, ensuring that the team is better equipped to handle the grind of the NFL season.
Let’s take a closer look at the three players the Dolphins signed, who are expected to bring a level of physicality and toughness that could make a big difference for the team moving forward.
1. David Montgomery (Running Back) – A Physical Ground Game
One of the most important aspects of improving toughness and physicality is having a running back who can grind out tough yards, control the clock, and take over games when needed. The Miami Dolphins signed David Montgomery, one of the most physically imposing running backs in the NFL, to add an edge to their backfield.
Montgomery, formerly of the Detroit Lions, is known for his bruising running style, constantly churning out yards after contact. He is the type of back who doesn’t shy away from contact, and his ability to break tackles makes him a valuable asset in short-yardage and goal-line situations. His ability to keep his legs churning and fight for extra yards will be key in a Dolphins offense that, at times, has struggled to establish a consistent ground game.
The signing of Montgomery is a clear indication that the Dolphins are looking to become a more physical team, particularly on offense. In recent seasons, Miami’s running game has often lacked a dominant force, and while their explosive passing game under quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has been a strength, a physical running back like Montgomery provides balance and a sense of power to the offense. In addition to his running ability, Montgomery is also a capable pass-catcher out of the backfield, making him an all-around weapon who can wear down defenses over the course of a game.
As the Dolphins work to become a tougher, more physical team, Montgomery’s presence will be felt in a big way, helping to establish a ground-and-pound mentality when needed, particularly in high-pressure moments or in tough divisional matchups.
2. Javon Hargrave (Defensive Tackle) – Strengthening the Defensive Line
In the NFL, controlling the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball is crucial for success. The Dolphins have made it clear that one of their main priorities in building a tougher, more physical team is improving their defense, particularly in terms of creating pressure on opposing quarterbacks and stopping the run. To address this need, Miami signed Javon Hargrave, a veteran defensive tackle known for his ability to disrupt both the pass and the run game.
Hargrave, who was previously with the Philadelphia Eagles, is one of the top interior defensive linemen in the NFL. His combination of size, strength, and quickness makes him a nightmare for offensive lines. Whether it’s penetrating the pocket to sack the quarterback or clogging up running lanes, Hargrave brings a level of toughness and physicality that the Dolphins’ defensive line has sorely lacked.
Hargrave’s physicality in the trenches will also help take pressure off Miami’s edge rushers. With a player like Hargrave demanding attention from opposing offensive lines, it opens up opportunities for other defenders to make plays. The Dolphins were effective at times in creating pressure last season, but with the addition of Hargrave, the defense will have a more consistent and dominant presence along the interior line.
Moreover, Hargrave is known for his leadership and tenacity, which will undoubtedly influence the younger players on the Dolphins’ defense. His toughness and experience will set the tone for a unit that will now have the physical presence to take on some of the league’s toughest offensive lines, giving Miami a much-needed edge in the trenches.
3. Tyreek Hill (Wide Receiver) – Physicality on the Outside
While the addition of Montgomery and Hargrave significantly strengthens the team’s physicality in the running game and the defensive line, the Dolphins also bolstered their receiving corps with a player who brings a unique type of physicality: Tyreek Hill.
Hill, who is often seen as one of the fastest players in the NFL, may not be the traditional definition of a “tough” player. However, Hill’s physicality is evident in his ability to take hits, break tackles, and fight for every yard. He is one of the most dangerous receivers in the league, not only because of his speed and deep-threat capabilities but because of his ability to outmuscle defenders after the catch. His quickness and ability to change direction make him difficult to bring down, and his aggressive style of play shows that he is not afraid to mix it up in the trenches when necessary.
With Hill on the roster, the Dolphins now have a player who can stretch the field and make plays at all levels of the passing game. But beyond just his speed, Hill’s physicality in contested catches and his willingness to fight for extra yards will add an element of toughness to Miami’s offensive identity. Pairing Hill with players like Montgomery and a solid offensive line will give the Dolphins a well-rounded, physical approach that can dominate in both the air and on the ground.
Hill’s signing is also part of a larger strategic vision for the Dolphins: creating a balance between finesse and physicality on offense. Miami has long been known for its speed and quick-strike ability, but the addition of Hill emphasizes that the team is evolving, adding more toughness and grit to its skill positions.
A Stronger, Tougher Miami Dolphins Team
The Miami Dolphins are making a concerted effort to be tougher, more physical, and more well-rounded in order to compete with the league’s elite teams. By signing David Montgomery, Javon Hargrave, and Tyreek Hill, the Dolphins are addressing areas of need and adding key players who embody the type of toughness and grit the team needs.
Montgomery brings physicality to the running back position, providing balance and toughness in the Dolphins’ offensive game plan. Hargrave strengthens the defensive line with his disruptive presence, helping to create pressure on opposing quarterbacks and improving Miami’s ability to stop the run. Meanwhile, Hill, though known for his speed, brings a different type of toughness to the receiving corps with his ability to fight for yards after the catch and make plays in the most difficult of circumstances.
These additions will provide a solid foundation for the Dolphins as they aim to become one of the most physical and well-rounded teams in the NFL. With a focus on toughness in both the trenches and skill positions, Miami is positioning itself to compete at a high level, and these signings are a major step toward achieving that goal. The Dolphins are primed to make a serious playoff push, with their newfound physicality being a key factor in their success.