Miami Dolphins Strengthen Offensive Line: A Bold Move in 2025 NFL Free Agency
The Miami Dolphins have emerged as one of the more intriguing teams in the 2025 NFL free agency period with their aggressive pursuit of two key offensive linemen. Known for their high-octane offense, spearheaded by dynamic quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and explosive weapons like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, the Dolphins have made it clear that they are prioritizing the protection of their quarterback and establishing a more robust foundation in the trenches. The two signings come at a crucial time, as the franchise looks to build on its promising 2024 season and take the next step toward becoming a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
A New Era of Protection
In the NFL, few things are more important than solidifying the offensive line. For a quarterback like Tua Tagovailoa, who has struggled with injuries in the past, providing him with a stable and secure pocket is paramount. Over the years, the Dolphins’ offensive line has been a weak point, often leading to inconsistent play and struggles in both the passing and running games. However, the 2025 free agency period marks a turning point for the franchise, with the front office recognizing the need to build a stronger offensive line to maximize their potential.
The two new offensive linemen signed by the Dolphins represent a clear strategy of improving both the pass protection and the overall run-blocking capabilities of the team. These signings are not just about protecting Tagovailoa; they are a statement about Miami’s intent to compete at a higher level in the AFC and make a deep playoff run.
The First Signing: A Veteran Presence
The Dolphins’ first major acquisition in free agency was the signing of veteran guard Aaron Jackson, a 6-foot-5, 320-pound powerhouse who spent the last six seasons with the Atlanta Falcons. Jackson is known for his versatility, having started at both guard and tackle during his career, but his primary position has been at left guard. His experience in both the run game and pass protection makes him an invaluable addition to a unit that has struggled to consistently protect the quarterback.
Jackson is a proven commodity in the league. Over his career, he has earned a reputation as a reliable and tough player who consistently performs at a high level. He brings leadership and stability to an offensive line that has lacked both in recent seasons. With the ability to pull and get to the second level in the run game, Jackson will immediately improve the Dolphins’ offensive line in terms of both power and finesse.
In 2024, Jackson’s play was instrumental in the Falcons’ ability to produce a balanced offensive attack, especially in the running game. His strength at the point of attack and his ability to neutralize defensive linemen in pass protection will allow the Dolphins to be more creative and effective in their offensive scheme. The signing of Jackson gives the Dolphins a dependable interior lineman who can mentor younger players and help shore up one of their biggest weaknesses from previous seasons.
The Second Signing: A Rising Star
The second offensive lineman to join the Dolphins is Chris Foster, a 26-year-old tackle who has quickly risen through the ranks since being drafted by the Chicago Bears in 2021. Foster, standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 320 pounds, is a force to be reckoned with on the edge. In his first few seasons with the Bears, he has proven to be an exceptional talent, earning a reputation as one of the most physically gifted tackles in the league. Known for his size, athleticism, and technique, Foster will give the Dolphins an elite presence at right tackle.
Foster’s signing signals the Dolphins’ long-term commitment to improving the offensive line. While he’s still relatively young, his growth and development over the past few years have been impressive. His ability to protect the quarterback on the outside and his skill in the run game will help open up more opportunities for both the passing attack and the running game. Foster’s ability to handle speed rushers and power rushers alike makes him a perfect fit for the Dolphins’ offense, which will allow them to maximize their potential with elite weapons like Hill and Waddle.
In 2024, Foster earned his first Pro Bowl selection, an honor that recognized his tremendous progress as a starting tackle. He became one of the cornerstones of the Bears’ offensive line and was particularly effective in protecting quarterback Justin Fields, whose mobility is somewhat similar to Tagovailoa’s. The Dolphins’ front office is banking on Foster’s success continuing in Miami as they try to build an offensive line capable of supporting an explosive offense.
Impact on the Dolphins’ Offense
The addition of both Jackson and Foster provides the Dolphins with the kind of balance and depth they’ve lacked for years. With Jackson’s ability to stabilize the interior of the offensive line and Foster’s skill at right tackle, the Dolphins now have a much-improved unit to protect their franchise quarterback. The chemistry between these two new additions and the rest of the offensive line will be critical as the Dolphins attempt to integrate these players into their system and ensure a smooth transition.
One of the most exciting aspects of the Dolphins’ offense is their ability to spread the field and use multiple weapons to create mismatches for opposing defenses. However, no offensive scheme, no matter how dynamic, can reach its full potential without adequate protection from the offensive line. Tagovailoa needs time to survey the field, and the team’s running backs need room to find holes and make plays. With Jackson and Foster now in the fold, the Dolphins are setting themselves up to be a far more potent offensive force in 2025.
Additionally, both signings will help the Dolphins’ ground game. With Foster’s strength and mobility, and Jackson’s ability to move defenders off the ball, Miami should be able to establish a more effective running game, which will, in turn, open up play-action opportunities for Tagovailoa. This is critical, as the Dolphins have often struggled with consistency in the ground game in recent years.
Looking Ahead: Super Bowl Contenders?
The signing of two impactful offensive linemen, combined with a roster filled with offensive playmakers, has elevated the Dolphins to a new level. With Tagovailoa entering a critical season and the offense beginning to come together, the Dolphins now have the necessary components to compete for the AFC title. The additions of Jackson and Foster suggest that the Dolphins are serious about making a Super Bowl run, and the upgraded offensive line is just the first step in that journey.
For a team that has not reached the Super Bowl in over two decades, the moves made in 2025 free agency are a clear indication that Miami is ready to break through. With their newly bolstered offensive line, a dynamic passing attack, and a defense that continues to improve, the Dolphins are poised to be one of the most exciting teams in the AFC this season.
As the 2025 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Miami to see if these offensive line additions can help propel them to new heights. The Dolphins’ front office has made it clear that they are committed to winning now, and with Jackson and Foster, they have laid a solid foundation for success. It is now up to the team to deliver on the promise that these signings represent.
