Dolphins Name Patrick Paul Starting Left Tackle

Rookie to replace retired veteran Terron Armstead on offensive line

Apr. 17, 2026 at 6:19pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting an NFL offensive line, with players and equipment broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color, representing the transition of a new player stepping into a crucial position.The Dolphins' offensive line undergoes a cubist transformation as the team entrusts a rookie to fill a critical role.Today in Miami

The Miami Dolphins have named Patrick Paul as their starting left tackle for the upcoming NFL season, replacing the recently retired veteran Terron Armstead. Dolphins general manager Chris Grier confirmed the move, stating that the rookie Paul will take over the critical left tackle position on the offensive line.

Why it matters

The left tackle position is one of the most important on an NFL offense, responsible for protecting the quarterback's blind side. Armstead was a Pro Bowl-caliber player, so Paul will have big shoes to fill as he steps into a starting role as a rookie.

The details

Grier praised Paul's performance in offseason workouts and training camp, saying the team has high expectations for the young lineman. Paul was the Dolphins' second-round draft pick in 2026 out of a smaller college program, but the team believes he has the talent and potential to develop into a quality starter at left tackle.

  • Terron Armstead announced his retirement from the NFL in March 2026.
  • The Dolphins selected Patrick Paul in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft in April.

The players

Patrick Paul

A rookie offensive tackle drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Terron Armstead

A veteran offensive tackle who recently retired after a Pro Bowl career with the Miami Dolphins.

Chris Grier

The general manager of the Miami Dolphins.

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What they’re saying

“Patrick will be our starter at left tackle. We have high expectations for him and believe he has the talent to develop into a quality starter for us.”

— Chris Grier, General Manager, Miami Dolphins

What’s next

The Dolphins will continue to monitor Paul's progress throughout the preseason as he prepares to take over the starting left tackle role.

The takeaway

The Dolphins are entrusting a critical position on their offensive line to a rookie, betting on Paul's potential to fill the void left by the retirement of the veteran Armstead. This move will be closely watched as the team looks to build around its young core of talent.