The Miami Dolphins are entering a rebuild with a new head coach, a new starting quarterback, and several unproven players hoping to make their mark in the NFL. While they enter the season with low expectations in a top-heavy AFC East division that includes a Super Bowl representative from last year, it's also a very exciting time for Dolphins fans, knowing that there's always the chance that Malik Willis and company could be much better than skeptics expect.
Internally, the Dolphins, led by first-year head coach Jeff Hafley, will have to be confident in what they have. They may also feel like they are a piece or two away from competing in their conference.
One way to give the offense a better chance to succeed would be to strengthen the offensive line, which includes star running back D'Von Achane. There are several potential impact players still available.
Recently, ESPN's Matt Bowen called the Dolphins the "best team fit" for former Detroit Lions left tackle Taylor Decker, who is still unsigned in free agency. Decker requested and was granted his release from the Lions earlier this offseason, and has not found a new home since.
"Decker had an 89.3% pass block win rate with Detroit in 2025, the second-lowest rate of his 10-year career. However, if he can prove healthy, he has the toughness and intangible abilities to win a starting role with most NFL teams. In Miami, Decker will compete for the left tackle spot with third-year pro Patrick Paul. The Dolphins signed former Alabama left tackle Chris Paul last month. Tackle Cadin Proctor was drafted, but he is expected to fill the slot at left guard in 2026.
ESPN's Matt Bowen on Taylor Decker
However, the 2024 Pro Bowl lineman is still only 32 years old (will turn 33 in August), and he has started all 140 of his appearances since being drafted as the 16th overall pick in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft. Decker will definitely help the Dolphins get the best from their offensive line, allowing some of the younger players to show off some veteran moves.
Whether Decker, who has become accustomed to entering the season with playoff expectations in Detroit in recent times, wants to join the rebuilding effort in Miami remains to be seen. Still, playing football, especially in South Beach while getting paid millions of dollars, is better than not competing at all.
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