Miami Dolphins
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Dolphins general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan shared his thoughts on a disappointing rookie
TheMiami Dolphins’ 2025 season was a disappointment as the team had its worst record since the 2019 season. After a 2-7 start, owner Stephen Ross decided to make an abrupt change as he fired general manager Chris Grier. Despite building a roster that posted four consecutive winning seasons, the Dolphins failed to win a playoff game during Grier’s tenure and after lackluster draft classes, Miami opted to move on.
After the 2024 season, in which Miami also missed the postseason, and no longer had the resources in free agency to infuse the roster with talent, the Dolphins relied heavily on their 2025 draft class. That class was led by Kenneth Grant and Jonah Savaiinaea, both of whom appeared in every game last season for Miami. However, their performance was not enough to provide Miami with a much-needed boost.
As a result, new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan has given an update on the status of Savaiinaea, and his role on the team going forward.
Miami Dolphins General Manager Speaks Out on Jonah Savaiinaea
During the 2025 NFL Draft, the Miami Dolphins traded up for the right to select Savaiinaea, giving up third- and fourth-round picks. The expectation was that Savaiinaea would step in as a day 1 starter for the Dolphins to shore up the interior of the offensive line. Savaiinaea did end up starting all 17 games for Miami, but his rookie season displayed up-and-down play. For that reason, Sullivan has not guaranteed his spot in the starting lineup next season.
When speaking on the team’s offensive line, Sullivan said left tackle Patrick Paul and center Aaron Brewer will be two of the team’s starters, but “there’s going to be competition” elsewhere.
Regarding Savaiinaea, Sullivan said, “Savaiinaea will be the first one to tell you he has got to be more consistent.”
On Savaiinaea’s rookie season,Pro Football Focus wrote:
“His PFF pass-blocking grade of 14.1 ranked 81st among 81 qualified offensive guards. His run-blocking grade of 37.3 ranked 79th at the position.
He allowed 45 total pressures in pass protection. That total included 8 sacks and 5 hits allowed to opposing pass rushers. He was flagged for 5 penalties over the course of the season.”
Miami Dolphins Offensive Line
Regarding the rest of the Dolphins offensive line, Sullivan said, “On the right side, we have some questions we need to get answered. [Right tackle] Austin Jackson. We’re excited to get him back; he needs to stay healthy. We are going to have competition at the right guard spot. I like a lot of pieces on our offensive line.”
Miami’s offensive line, led by All-Pro center Aaron Brewer, was a big reason why the Dolphins won six of their final nine games, as they prioritized running the football. During free agency, the team signed Jamaree Salyer, a former Los Angeles Chargers offensive lineman, who has experience playing tackle and guard.
Miami also lost right guard Cole Strange in free agency, as he joined the Chargers, reuniting with former head coach Mike McDaniel. The team also released James Daniels one year after signing a three-year contract with the Dolphins.