To Replace a Crucial Position This Offseason, the Miami Dolphins Could Do Worse Than to Explore a Former #1 Pick
The NFL offseason is a time when teams can reshape their rosters, address weaknesses, and plot a course for the future. For the Miami Dolphins, a team with promise and young talent, this offseason represents a critical opportunity to continue their rise within the AFC East and beyond. As they look to make significant improvements to their roster, one area of focus could be replacing a key position. To achieve this, the Dolphins might want to explore the possibility of acquiring a former #1 overall pick who, while not currently at the peak of his career, could still provide immense value in a new environment.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the current state of the Dolphins, identify the position they need to fill, and explore why a former #1 pick might be the answer. We’ll analyze the specific challenges of the position, how a player like this could fit into Miami’s scheme, and ultimately why the Dolphins should at least consider making a move for a player with the pedigree of a former #1 pick.
The Miami Dolphins’ Current Situation
The Miami Dolphins’ 2023 season was one of promise. With a potent offense led by quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, wide receiver Tyreek Hill, and running back Raheem Mostert, the Dolphins’ offense proved that they can go toe-to-toe with some of the most powerful teams in the NFL. Miami’s defense, which was one of the league’s more opportunistic units, also showed flashes of brilliance under head coach Mike McDaniel and defensive coordinator Vic Fangio.
However, despite all the excitement, the Dolphins were still held back in certain areas, particularly on the offensive and defensive lines. Their offense, while explosive, occasionally struggled with protection, and their defense was inconsistent at times. More specifically, the team needs an upgrade at a key position: left tackle.
In the NFL, the left tackle position is paramount. Not only is it responsible for protecting a quarterback’s blindside, but it also serves as the foundation of the offensive line. A top-tier left tackle can completely alter the way an offense functions, offering more time in the pocket for quarterbacks, lanes for running backs, and stability across the line. Without a reliable left tackle, the entire offense can suffer.
As of now, Miami’s offensive line is far from settled. While they have players like Terron Armstead, who has been a solid presence, his age, injury history, and potential future uncertainty mean that the Dolphins could be looking for a long-term solution at the position. Enter the possibility of acquiring a former #1 overall pick who has played left tackle in the past, and whose potential could be reignited in a fresh system.
The Importance of the Left Tackle Position
The left tackle is one of the most critical positions on an NFL roster. With the quarterback being the centerpiece of any offense, the left tackle must safeguard their blindside against a growing number of elite pass rushers. Without a left tackle who can consistently win their matchup, the quarterback is vulnerable to sacks, forced throws, and ultimately, injuries. A great left tackle not only keeps the quarterback upright, but also allows offensive coordinators to devise more complex and effective plays.
For the Dolphins, protecting Tua Tagovailoa is of utmost importance. With his injury history, especially the concussions that have sidelined him in the past, keeping him safe in the pocket is an essential factor in the team’s long-term success. Tua has shown flashes of brilliance when given time to survey the field, but he needs an offensive line that can withstand the pressures of a demanding NFL season.
Moreover, the Dolphins’ offensive line as a whole has been inconsistent. Despite adding players like Armstead and drafting talent in recent years, Miami has struggled with cohesion on the line. If the Dolphins are serious about making a deep playoff run and eventually contending for a Super Bowl, upgrading the left tackle position could be one of the most immediate and impactful moves they could make this offseason.
The Former #1 Pick: A Potential Answer
One player who could help solidify the Dolphins’ offensive line is former #1 overall pick, Andrew Thomas. Though he’s not as high-profile as some other recent #1 picks, Thomas, drafted by the New York Giants in 2020, could be an intriguing addition for Miami. While his initial years in New York were filled with growing pains, Thomas has developed into one of the top tackles in the league.
Why Andrew Thomas?
Andrew Thomas was drafted out of Georgia with the hope that he could become a cornerstone for the Giants’ offensive line. Like many young players in the league, his first season was rocky, marked by a series of challenges that come with making the leap to the NFL. However, as time went on, Thomas began to show why he was considered one of the most talented offensive linemen in his class. Over the past few seasons, he has consistently shown improvement, earning recognition as one of the top tackles in the league.
One of the key attributes that makes Thomas an appealing option for the Dolphins is his ability to protect the quarterback’s blindside. He has a strong, athletic frame and has demonstrated the ability to handle some of the best pass rushers in the NFL. His footwork, hand placement, and awareness have all improved as his career has progressed, making him a more complete player. Furthermore, he is a proven player against both the run and pass, which would fit perfectly with Miami’s balanced offensive attack.
Additionally, Thomas is still in the prime of his career, and his age (currently 24) means that he could be a long-term solution for the Dolphins’ offensive line. Given the durability and talent he’s displayed over the past few seasons, Miami could acquire a player who could anchor their offensive line for years to come.
Moreover, Thomas’s familiarity with the NFC East’s strong pass rushers—such as Micah Parsons and Jonathan Allen—would give him a distinct advantage in matching up against some of the best defensive players the NFL has to offer. This experience would prove valuable as he transitions into Miami’s fast-paced, high-tempo offense.
The Potential Fit in Miami’s Scheme
Under head coach Mike McDaniel, the Dolphins have thrived in a dynamic, pass-heavy offense that seeks to get the ball to playmakers quickly. Their zone-based running scheme, combined with quick-hitting passing concepts, allows for explosive plays while also keeping the defense on its heels. To succeed in this system, Miami needs an offensive line that is athletic, quick, and capable of holding up in space.
Andrew Thomas is a good fit in this scheme because of his ability to move well laterally and his flexibility as both a pass protector and run blocker. His athleticism would help him thrive in McDaniel’s offense, which emphasizes creating opportunities in space and quickly neutralizing defenders. His skills would be particularly useful in the zone-blocking scheme that Miami employs, as he can get to the second level and create running lanes for Miami’s backs.
Additionally, with a player like Thomas in the lineup, the Dolphins could bolster their offensive line in both the short-term and long-term. His presence would provide stability, allowing the team to focus on other areas of need, whether it be adding more weapons to the offense or continuing to improve the defense.
What Could a Trade Look Like?
It’s important to note that acquiring a player of Thomas’s caliber would likely come at a cost. The Giants, although inconsistent at times, have seen the potential in Thomas, and he’s currently one of their best players on the roster. However, given Miami’s desire to improve its offensive line and the potential instability that could arise with Armstead’s future, the Dolphins could pursue Thomas through a trade.
The asking price would likely involve one of Miami’s valuable draft picks, possibly a first-round pick in the 2025 draft, as well as other compensatory pieces. While some might argue that the Dolphins should avoid giving up too much capital for a player with a checkered early career, the potential return on investment in a player like Thomas, who has shown steady improvement, would be well worth it. In addition, with Miami’s current roster construction, giving up draft capital for a proven player could be an intelligent move if the team feels they are one piece away from being a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
The Bigger Picture: Can the Dolphins Afford It?
Miami has shown in recent years that they are willing to make aggressive moves to build a competitive roster. Their pursuit of players like Tyreek Hill and Bradley Chubb signaled a shift toward a win-now mentality. The Dolphins have a solid foundation, with key pieces already in place on offense and defense, but a solidifying addition to the offensive line could be what sets them apart from other AFC contenders.
However, financial constraints and salary cap considerations are always a factor. Miami would need to evaluate its cap space and determine whether they can afford to take on Thomas’s contract, which could be expensive given his high draft status. That said, with cap flexibility and some creative contract restructuring, the Dolphins could maneuver their way into acquiring Thomas and making it work within their current salary structure.
A Step in the Right Direction
For the Miami Dolphins, the offseason presents an opportunity to make crucial upgrades to a team on the rise. While the Dolphins have several areas that need attention, the offensive line—specifically the left tackle position—stands out as one of the most vital positions that must be addressed.
Former #1 overall pick Andrew Thomas could be a game-changing acquisition for Miami. His talent, age, and familiarity with the pressures of the NFL make him an intriguing option to bolster the Dolphins’ offensive line and ensure that Tua Tagovailoa stays upright and healthy for years to come.
While it would require a commitment of draft capital and salary cap space, bringing in Thomas could be one of the smartest moves Miami could make. With a young and dynamic roster, the addition of a proven left tackle could help them take the next step in their quest for a Super Bowl title. For the Miami Dolphins, exploring the possibility of adding a former #1 pick like Andrew Thomas could be exactly what the team needs to push them over the top.