Andrew Buller-Russ
The Miami Dolphins are entering a rebuild, with a new head coach, a new starting quarterback, and a ton of 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 features a Super Bowl representative from last year, it’s also a very exciting time for Dolphins fans, knowing there’s always the chance that Malik Willis and company could be a lot better than skeptics anticipate.
Internally, the Dolphins, led by first-year head coach Jeff Hafley, have to be confident in what they have. They could even feel like they’re one or two pieces away from competing in their conference.
One way to give the offense, including star running back De’Von Achane, a better chance at succeeding would be to reinforce the offensive line. Several potential impact players are still available.
Recently, ESPN’s Matt Bowen called the Dolphins the “best team fit” for former Detroit Lions left tackle Taylor Decker, who’s still unsigned in free agency. Decker requested and was granted his release from the Lions earlier this offseason, and he hasn’t found a new home since.
“Decker had an 89.3% pass block win rate in 2025 with Detroit, the second-lowest rate of his 10-year career. If he can prove to be healthy, however, he has the toughness and intangibles to win a starting role with most NFL teams. In Miami, Decker would compete for the left tackle spot with third-year pro Patrick Paul. The Dolphins drafted former Alabama left tackle Kadyn Proctor last month, but he is expected to slot in at left guard in 2026.”
ESPN’s Matt Bowen on Taylor Decker
However, the 2024 Pro Bowl lineman is still just 32 years old (set to turn 33 in August), and he’s started all 140 of his appearances since arriving as the 16th overall pick in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft. Decker would certainly help the Dolphins get the best out of their offensive line, helping show some of the younger players a few veteran tricks along the way.
Whether Decker, who has gotten used to entering a season with playoff expectations in Detroit in recent times, wants to join a rebuilding effort in Miami remains to be seen. Yet, playing football, especially in South Beach while getting paid millions of dollars, is better than not competing at all.
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