Throughout this offseason, the Miami Dolphins have clearly put forth a concerted when it comes to addressing the offensive line issues that have ailed the team in recent years.
In just the last month, the Dolphins have brought in Terron Armstead and Connor Williams who will likely end up taking over the left tackle and left guards roles, respectively. With Robert Hunt probably staying put at right guard, the Dolphins have two spots that could be considered up for grabs.
Miami moved on from right tackle Jesse Davis, who is now a member of the Minnesota Vikings, this offseason, and it looks like there will be a battle between Austin Jackson and Liam Eichenberg for that starting job.
That leaves center as a position that wasn’t great last year and could use competition. Michael Deiter started eight games there last season and is expected to have the inside track again, especially after he was praised by general manager Chris Grier at the annual meetings. However, he also said they want to add competition.
Where that competition comes from is unknown at this point, as they could look to the draft or free agency. If the route they decide to take is the latter one, the Dolphins shouldn’t look any further than former Cleveland Browns center J.C. Tretter.
Tretter, 31, had been with Cleveland for the last five seasons before his release this offseason, starting 80 of 81 possible games. This past year, he was Pro Football Focus’ sixth-ranked center and was the second-best when it came to pass-blocking.
Deiter was ranked No. 28 overall and No. 25 in pass-blocking.
Prior to his release, Tretter has been making $10.85 million annually, which was the sixth-highest AAV in the league. He would probably be looking for around the same money, which would be another big investment on the line, but it could be worth it.
The NFLPA president could bring some solid veteran leadership that could not only help the line now, but he could join forces with Armstead to help teach and mentor a group of younger linemen that could use the help.
