The Miami Dolphins entered the 2025 NFL Draft with clear priorities: fortify both sides of the line of scrimmage and add depth at critical positions. Over eight selections, general manager Chris Grier and head coach Mike McDaniel stuck to that plan, especially focusing on strengthening a depleted defensive front. Here’s a detailed look at each of Miami’s 2025 draft picks:
Round 1, No. 13 Overall: Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan
Miami badly needed help along its defensive line, and Kenneth Grant immediately fills that void. The 6-foot-3, 340-pounder is expected to play a major role early, even if he doesn’t crack the starting lineup right away. With few viable starters outside of Zach Sieler, Grant should see significant snaps at nose tackle. The Dolphins passed on the idea of trading down, believing Grant could have a Dexter Lawrence-type impact. Although Grant won’t be counted on heavily as a pass rusher initially, his size, strength, and athleticism could lift Miami’s front seven into one of the better units in the league if his development progresses.
Round 2, No. 37 Overall (From Las Vegas): Jonah Savaiinaea, OG, Arizona
After shoring up the defensive front, Miami turned to the offensive line, snagging Jonah Savaiinaea early in the second round. The versatile Arizona product played multiple spots in college and offers much-needed youth and upside at guard. With the top interior linemen already off the board, Savaiinaea represented the Dolphins’ best shot at locking down a starting-caliber guard. He’ll compete with veteran Liam Eichenberg for the left guard position, with Savaiinaea expected to get the first crack at the job. Miami may still look to add a veteran, but this pick brings some much-needed talent to a thinned-out unit.
Round 5, No. 143 Overall: Jordan Phillips, DT, Maryland
Miami continued its defensive line rebuild with Jordan Phillips, a 6-foot-2, 312-pound tackle known for his wrestling and weightlifting background. Phillips is a developmental prospect, particularly against the pass, but at just 20 years old, he offers long-term upside. He’ll likely rotate behind Kenneth Grant and could help Miami wear down opposing offensive lines over four quarters.
Round 5, No. 150 Overall (From Denver): Jason Marshall Jr., CB, Florida
The Dolphins stayed local with their next pick, taking former Miami Palmetto High star Jason Marshall Jr. A five-star recruit out of high school, Marshall brings good size (6-foot, 195 pounds) and developmental upside at cornerback. Miami’s secondary has plenty of openings, and while Marshall isn’t expected to start immediately, the opportunity to compete for meaningful snaps will be there.
Round 5, No. 155 Overall: Dante Trader Jr., S, Maryland
Safety was a second-tier need for the Dolphins even after free agency, and they addressed it again with Dante Trader Jr. While not the fastest safety, Trader’s instincts, tackling ability, and knack for turnovers could help him earn early playing time, especially on special teams. With Miami’s safety room still unsettled, he’s a name to watch throughout training camp.
Round 6, No. 179 Overall: Ollie Gordon II, RB, Oklahoma State
One of the steals of the draft, Miami nabbed Ollie Gordon II in the sixth round. Gordon, the 2023 Doak Walker Award winner, led the FBS in rushing yards two seasons ago. His stock dropped after a rough 2024 season at Oklahoma State, but his power-running style perfectly complements Miami’s current backfield. Gordon should have an immediate role as a short-yardage back, freeing up De’Von Achane for more explosive plays in open space.
Round 7, No. 231 Overall: Quinn Ewers, QB, Texas
The Dolphins added a developmental quarterback by selecting Quinn Ewers late in the draft. Once one of the highest-rated recruits in history, Ewers won’t challenge Tua Tagovailoa for the starting job but could eventually develop into Miami’s primary backup. With veteran Zach Wilson recently signed, Ewers will have time to grow without immediate pressure — a smart investment given Tagovailoa’s injury history.
Round 7, No. 253 Overall: Zeek Biggers, DT, Georgia Tech
Miami’s defensive line overhaul culminated with the selection of Zeek Biggers, a mammoth presence at 6-foot-6, 320 pounds. Biggers made a name for himself at Georgia Tech by blocking four kicks and causing disruption with his size alone. He’ll compete with fellow rookies Kenneth Grant and Jordan Phillips for rotational snaps, giving defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver a variety of options up front.
Final Thoughts:
The Dolphins entered this draft with specific goals, and they executed them with precision. By doubling — and even tripling — down on the defensive line and adding potential starters at guard, cornerback, and running back, Miami positioned itself to be tougher in the trenches and more resilient across the roster. Whether this draft ultimately elevates them to AFC contender status will depend on how quickly players like Grant, Savaiinaea, and Gordon can contribute, but the foundation has certainly been laid.
