Dolphins Seek Veteran Guard to Bolster Offensive Line After Signing QB Malik Willis

Miami looks to shore up interior offensive line to protect new QB and establish physical identity

Mar. 15, 2026 at 4:42am

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The Miami Dolphins have signed quarterback Malik Willis to a two-year, $45 million deal in free agency, signaling a shift towards a more athletic and dual-threat signal-caller. However, the Dolphins still need to address a major hole on their offensive line, specifically at the guard position, in order to give Willis the best chance to succeed and establish a physical identity for the team.

Why it matters

The Dolphins' offensive line was a major weakness in 2025, hampering the team's ability to run the ball effectively and protect the quarterback. Addressing this issue is crucial for the development of Willis and the overall success of the team moving forward. A strong interior offensive line can create a clean pocket for Willis to operate and open up running lanes for the team's talented skill position players.

The details

The Dolphins have been active in free agency, signing several veteran players to "prove-it" deals, including kicker Zane Gonzalez, wide receiver Tutu Atwell, edge rusher Joshua Uche, and tight end Greg Dulcich. However, the team's biggest need remains at guard, where 2022 rookie Jonah Savaiinaea struggled at times. Signing a veteran, dominant guard would provide stability and physicality to the interior of the offensive line, which is essential for the success of the Malik Willis-led offense.

  • The Dolphins finished the 2025 season with a 7-10 record, leading to the departure of long-time GM Chris Grier and the eventual benching of Tua Tagovailoa.
  • The 2026 NFL free agency period opened on March 15, 2026, with the Dolphins signing Malik Willis to a two-year, $45 million deal.

The players

Malik Willis

A dual-threat quarterback with a strong arm and untapped potential, signed by the Dolphins to a two-year, $45 million deal in free agency.

Jonah Savaiinaea

A 2022 draft pick of the Dolphins who showed glimpses of growth at guard late in his rookie season, but often looked overwhelmed and could benefit from a veteran presence next to him.

Jon-Eric Sullivan

The new general manager of the Dolphins, who has taken a calculated, value-focused approach to free agency in an effort to rebuild the roster.

Mike McDaniel

The head coach of the Dolphins, who is facing a critical season as the team looks to rebound from a disappointing 7-10 campaign in 2025.

Jeff Hafley

The new defensive coordinator of the Dolphins, who will be tasked with building a more versatile unit to complement the team's offensive changes.

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What they’re saying

“Signing Malik Willis is just the preamble to a much larger narrative. This move is the spark, not the fire. If Miami expects Willis to survive, let alone thrive, they cannot stop here.”

— Enzo Flojo, Author (clutchpoints.com)

“The roster remains a jigsaw puzzle with missing pieces. Right now, the most glaring hole is one that could sink the entire 2026 campaign before the first whistle blows in September.”

— Enzo Flojo, Author (clutchpoints.com)

What’s next

The Dolphins must immediately address the interior of their offensive line by signing a veteran, dominant guard. This move is essential to provide stability and physicality upfront, which will allow Malik Willis to thrive and establish the team's desired physical identity.

The takeaway

The Dolphins' signing of Malik Willis is a bold move, but it will only be successful if the team can shore up the interior of their offensive line. Investing in a veteran guard is crucial to creating a clean pocket for Willis and opening up running lanes for the team's skill position players, ultimately determining the success or failure of this new era in Miami.