North Dakota State offensive lineman Grey Zabel’s NFL draft stock shot up after his performance at the 2025 Senior Bowl.
Zabel finished his collegiate career a two-time NCAA FCS national champion and earned FCS First Team All-American honors in 2024. In five seasons with the Bison, he started 41 games, including 36 straight to finish his collegiate career.
He primarily played tackle, with extended time on both sides of the line, but also made starts at each guard position. His power and athleticism were on display at Senior Bowl practices, where he dominated high-level competition.
Position: G/C
Projected round: 2nd
Height: 6’5
Weight: 316
Fit for Miami
Dolphins center Aaron Brewer had a great 2024 season in his first year with Miami. With Brewer signed through the 2026 season, Zabel could slot in at either guard spot, keeping Brewer in the middle of the offensive line.
However, adding a 6’5 rookie to the interior could give Miami plenty of options with multiple versatile linemen inside.
Selecting the NDSU standout could create flexibility, or at worst, a bit of insurance and position continuity through 2028 at least.
Bottom line
Dolphins general manager Chris Grier downplayed the worry at the offensive line last year. That mindset has shifted and he now admits there’s a need to invest in the group. Zabel could be too valuable to pass on in Day 2 if he’s on the board.
Zabel’s five-position versatility could be key for a Dolphins team that have at least two holes to fill on the unit.
With Brewer in the middle and one of the guard spots manned by Zabel, the Dolphins could see an immediate improvement and establish more of a power running game with beef on the inside. Miami would also get a player who can learn and cross-train at center, something the Dolphins aren’t shy about doing.
