The smoke has cleared from a fire drill 24-hours in NFL roster movement. The Miami Dolphins completed their “initial” 53-man roster, and included in that group was 10 offensive linemen (which was trimmed to nine with Jack Driscoll’s release).
There’s still time for things to change slightly with certain roster designations or signings in the next few days, and even weeks. There’s also guard Isaiah Wynn who will begin the season on the PUP list.
For now, though, the big surprise is Andrew Meyer.
With free agent acquisition Aaron Brewer out with a hand injury suffered in training camp (which shouldn’t keep him out Week 1), Meyer had an opportunity to shine in the preseason.
According to the numbers, Meyer’s roster inclusion is warranted.
Andrew Meyer this preseason:
🐬 101 pass-blocking snaps
🐬 3 pressures allowed
🐬 98.0 pass block efficiency pic.twitter.com/s23lDRQC1T— PFF MIA Dolphins (@PFF_Dolphins) August 28, 2024
Meyer ended his collegiate career at UTEP as a two-time All-Conference USA honorable mention. He was a full-time starter for UTEP and fits the Dolphins system perfectly with athleticism to handle himself well out in space.
Andrew Meyer (60) made the initial 53 because it's very difficult to find a center with this level of athleticism and he fits the scheme like a glove #Dolphins pic.twitter.com/py2RM0pz6w
— Ryder McConville (@RyderM25) August 27, 2024
As per scouting site, NFL Draft Diamonds, Meyer’s scheme fit is zone run and quick pass offenses. Tailor made for Mike McDaniel’s offense in Miami.
“Andrew has the play speed, and mental acuity to play at the next level, with another year to bulk he will be a promising prospect for an NFL team,” Jimmy Williams of NFL Draft Diamonds wrote last year.
Ideally for Miami, Meyer will carve himself a role as the No. 2 center. That would allow Liam Eichenberg to focus his time and energy at guard, rather than continue to prepare as an emergency center.
Meyer has experience at the position, rather than a lineman forced into an unfamiliar position out of need.
The question is whether Meyer has the ability to handle himself as a spot starter should Brewer’s hand issue linger and cost him time in the lineup.
In the meantime, Meyer will get the chance to add strength and work with offensive line coach Butch Barry in hopes of becoming a reliable player for the franchise.
