In 2023, the Miami Dolphins were one of the league’s most explosive teams, with their rushing attack playing a pivotal role in their success. Raheem Mostert, tied with Christian McCaffrey for the most touchdowns that season, spearheaded a potent offense that made them difficult to contain. As the Dolphins entered the 2024 season, their ground game was expected to continue to be a major weapon, enabling head coach Mike McDaniel to exploit defensive weaknesses. Unfortunately, that hasn’t been the case. Instead of continuing their offensive dominance, the Dolphins’ rushing attack has faltered, and their passing game has been stifled as defenses adjusted.
Injuries, particularly to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, have certainly played a part in the team’s struggles. Yet, during a five-game stretch, Miami’s rushing offense showed flashes of brilliance, tallying 106, 193, 188, 150, and 149 yards. However, since their 149-yard outing against Buffalo in Week 9, the Dolphins have been unable to break the 100-yard mark in any game. The closest they came was 82 yards against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 11. In recent weeks, their rushing game has been abysmal, with only 39 yards against Green Bay on Thanksgiving and 44 yards against the New York Jets the following week.
What’s Behind Miami’s Struggling Rushing Attack?
1. A Lack of Physicality in the Running Game
Miami’s offense was never built for a bruising, power-run game, but the team’s inability to convert in short-yardage situations has become a glaring weakness. Raheem Mostert, expected to be the team’s physical back, has battled injuries, while Jeff Wilson has seen limited action. Head coach Mike McDaniel has turned to De’Von Achane and Jaylen Wright, both of whom can break off big runs but aren’t suited for the tough, inside yardage that the team has needed. As a result, defenses have adjusted, and Miami’s running game has become far too easy to stop.
2. Inconsistent Play Along the Offensive Line
The Dolphins’ offensive line has been another major problem. Robert Jones, though improved, still struggles with consistency, while Liam Eichenberg has played better than last year but remains far from dependable. The interior of the line has been especially problematic in short-yardage situations, with neither guard able to generate the push needed to move defenders off the ball. Until this changes, Miami’s running game will continue to face significant challenges. Unfortunately, this issue hasn’t been addressed by general manager Chris Grier, who has failed to prioritize it.
3. Injuries and Departures Have Left the Line in Shambles
Injuries are a part of the game, but Miami’s offensive line has been particularly affected by the loss of key players from last season. Austin Jackson, who stayed healthy in 2023, is now on injured reserve, and Robert Hunt, a crucial cog in the line, left via free agency. This has placed extra pressure on Jones, whose play remains inconsistent. Meanwhile, veteran Terron Armstead has stayed relatively healthy but is getting older, and rookie Patrick Paul is still learning the ropes. The Dolphins’ offensive line is in a state of flux, and without reinforcements, this lack of continuity will continue to hurt the running game.
Can Miami Fix Their Offensive Line Woes?
Despite the pressing issues, general manager Chris Grier has shown little urgency in addressing the offensive line. Eichenberg’s struggles have been apparent since day one, and while Jones was an undrafted free agent, his lack of development underscores the need for better talent at the position. Miami also allowed their best draft pick at guard to leave last offseason. Heading into the 2024 offseason, the Dolphins find themselves once again with a glaring hole at guard.
While free agency could offer some help, the Dolphins’ cap space is limited, and they have other needs that will likely take priority. Drafting a solution is another avenue, but Grier’s track record in the draft, particularly when it comes to offensive line talent, has been shaky. At this point, it’s clear that the Dolphins’ postseason hopes rest on whether they can solve their offensive line problems. Until they do, their playoff chances remain uncertain, and the biggest question facing the team is how they plan to fix their offensive line issues before it’s too late.
